How to install 4G antenna for industrial phone to ensure high-quality and reliable communication

Introduction.

As we discussed earlier, more and more clients, designers, and installers are using industrial-grade and all-weather phones connected via a mobile network. This solution naturally has both pros and cons, which you can learn about in a specialized article at the following link. In this article, we'll discuss the most important parameter affecting the connection quality of a landline phone connected via a mobile network: how to install 4G antenna for industrial phone. This is where most installers and customers make mistakes.

Antenna placement.

Antenna placement is the most important and critical parameter. Often, moving the antenna a few feet to a more suitable location can dramatically resolve connection issues. Most technical support requests from customers who purchased 4G or GSM landline phones from us are resolved by relocating the antenna included with the phone.

What to consider when choosing an antenna installation location:

1. The "higher, the better" rule — preferably on the roof of the building, above HVAC roof top units, trees, etc. We understand that this isn't always possible, as it can pose challenges. For example, building a dedicated antenna tower isn't practical and expensive, and building owners often disapprove of rooftop antenna installations. In these cases, we install the antenna in the highest possible location. It's also best to test several locations before installation using a mobile phone connected to the same carrier as the 4G industrial phone being installed.

2. Antenna orientation. Our phones come with omnidirectional antennas by default, but we can equip them with directional antennas upon special request. If you use omnidirectional antennas, locate the nearest cell tower of your operator using an app or online cell tower map. Place the antenna as close to the nearest cell tower as possible, preferably within direct line of sight. If the nearest tower is obscured by a large object (such as a building), position the antenna closer to the next closest cell tower. If you use a directional antenna, point it toward the nearest unobscured tower.

3. Avoid large objects that block the signal. When installing the antenna, try to avoid locations where a large object, such as a crane, metal roof, or container, is located between the cell tower and the antenna. If such an object is present, it's best to relocate the antenna.

Antenna type.

As discussed above, our industrial 4G phones can come with standard omnidirectional antennas or directional antennas. The omnidirectional are more versatile and perform better in areas with multiple signals from different cell towers, such as in cities or densely populated areas. Directional antennas are best used in areas with weak signals or when the location is remote and there is only one cell tower in the area.

Antenna cable installation.

This is also a very important aspect that is not always given due attention. Here are the basic rules for proper antenna cable installation:

1. Choose a good antenna cable with minimal signal loss, such as LMR-400 or equivalent.

2. Keep the cable length as short as possible to reduce signal loss.

3. Separate the antenna cable route from the high-voltage cable by at least 12 inches.

4. Avoid laying the antenna cable near engines, generators, and other sources of powerful electromagnetic radiation.

5. If you need to bend the cable 90 degrees during installation, use ferrite chokes.

6. Use sealed cable entries and silicone, where necessary, to prevent rust and poor contact.

7. Avoid pulling long sections along metal ducts and in steel cable channels.

Proper grounding, lighting and surge protection.

Ground the mast and antenna in accordance with local electrical codes and the equipment manufacturer's instructions; install surge protectors on the power line and shielded N-type lightning arrestors (or recommended ones) between the antenna and the equipment. This will protect the equipment and personnel from electric shock. Do not skip this step.

Checklist for on-site 4G antenna installers.

1. Before installing the antenna and cable, take the time to check the proposed cable route and signal strength. Conduct signal quality tests using a mobile phone connected to the same carrier as the landline phone with a 4G connection. Choose the optimal location for installing the antenna and cable.

2. If possible, mount the antenna on a sturdy mast or pole above roof level. Ensure the mast is well-supported and can withstand wind loads.

3. The antenna cable route should have a minimum of bends and should not be twisted. Avoid running it near power lines or sources of interference.

4. Use zip-ties every few feet to prevent sagging and tangling.

5. Use sealed cable entries and silicone where necessary.

6. Install a surge arrester and ground the mast in accordance with local codes.

7. Document the antenna installation location and store it with other documentation.

The link contains a checklist/reminder for 4G antenna installers, which will help you remember every important aspect of high-quality antenna installation.

LightCOM_4G_Antenna_Installation_Checklist.pdf

Download PDF • 6KB

But don't worry, in most cases there are no difficulties, you just install the antenna closer to the phone, preferably higher, and everything works.