Atlanta –
, the supplier of zBoost-brand cellphone
signal boosters, launched a new in-door 800/1900MHz booster for SO/HO users,
reducing the device’s size while boosting performance over its same-price
predecessor.
The $399-suggested
SOHO YX545, due in August, increases signal strength by up to 20 percent more
than its predecessor, features a smaller base unit, and comes with a new
low-profile outboard receiving antenna with a 3 dbi to 5 dbi gain over the
previous model’s antenna. A new user interface is simpler, featuring only one
button.
New software
enables the device to optimize reception automatically every 24 hours, the
company said. “At any time cell towers can adjust their signal, or other
obstacles can interfere, and cause the zBoost to perform at a lower level,”
said CEO Lloyd Meese of the software.
The SOHO YX545
replaces the 510 and comes with amplifier base unit, power supply, base unit
antenna, and RG59-mini coaxial cable to connect the base station to a receiving
antenna. Like other zBoost products,
the SOHO features patented technology to prevent a cell site’s performance from
degrading, the company said.
“A reliable
in-door cellphone signal is a necessity for many consumers,” Meese said of the
device’s market potential. He pointed to a December 2009 survey commissioned by
Wi-Ex and conducted by Harris Interactive. The survey found that 67 percent of
cellphone owners experience reception problems when making cellphone calls in
their homes, and 49 percent claim to have done something special to improve
in-door signal strength. In addition, 67 percent of cellphone owners use
cellular data applications and, of those, 57 percent experience reception
problems.
Wi-Ex offers a line of cellphone signal extenders for the home, office and car.
