weBoost Drive 3G-Flex™ Cellular Signal Booster
This document provides installation and user instructions for the weBoost Drive 3G-Flex™ Dual-Band Wireless SmarTech III® Signal Booster.
Important Safety Information
⚠️ IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO POWER YOUR SIGNAL BOOSTER USING A SURGE PROTECTED AC POWER STRIP WITH AT LEAST A 1000 JOULE RATING. FAILURE TO DO THIS WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY IN THE EVENT OF A POWER SURGE OR LIGHTNING STRIKE.
⚠️ THE SIGNAL BOOSTER UNIT IS DESIGNED FOR USE IN AN INDOOR, TEMPERATURE-CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT (LESS THAN 150 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT). IT IS NOT INTENDED FOR USE IN ATTICS OR SIMILAR LOCATIONS SUBJECT TO TEMPERATURES IN EXCESS OF 150 F.
Product Identification
Model #: 470013
FCC ID: PWO460013
IC: 4726A-460013
The term "IC" before the radio certification number only signifies that Industry Canada technical specifications were met.
Contents
This guide covers the following topics:
- Package Contents
- Optional Accessories
- Installation Options
- Vehicle Installation Option
- In-Building Installation Option
- Understanding the Drive 3G-Flex Light
- Recommended Additional FAQ
- Safety and Recommendations
- Signal Booster Specifications
- Warranty
Package Contents
Carrying case included:
- Drive 3G-Flex™ Signal Booster
- Mini-Magnet Mount Antenna (301126)
- USB power cable with power adapter (859963)
- Antenna Window Mount (901128)
- AC/DC Power Supply (859969)
- Vehicle Dash Mounting Kit (includes Rugged/Screw Mount, Adhesive Mount, Vent Clip Mount, Alcohol Prep Pad)
Appearance of device and accessories may vary.
Optional Accessories
Mounting Options
- Adjustable Desk Mount (901137)
- Gooseneck Cradle Mount (901120)
- Cup Holder Cradle Mount (901130)
Optional Antennas Kits
Refer to page 7 for additional Antenna Kit Options.
Mobile Power Supply
- Mobile Power Supply (859984)
Installation Options
Before you start your installation, read through each step of the instructions. Also, watch the installation video at weboost.com/us/drive3G-Flexvideo. You can install Drive 3G-Flex in your vehicle, in your home, office, or in a hotel room or other building using the following steps.
Vehicle Installation Option
- Install the Outside Antenna: Select a location on top of the car that is:
- On a magnetic surface, preferably near the center of the vehicle's roof.
- At least 12 inches from any other antennas.
- Free of obstructions.
- At least 6 inches from any windows (including sunroofs).
- At least 8 inches from any people.
The Outside Antenna must be installed vertically.
- Run the Outside Antenna cable into the car: The cable is strong enough that it may be shut in most vehicle doors without damaging the cable. For a cleaner look, carefully pull down the door seal, run the cable under the seal, and push the seal back into place. This method reduces wear on the cable as the door opens and closes.
- Attach the Adhesive Mounting Bracket to the vehicle's dashboard:
- Clean the area where the bracket is to be mounted with the alcohol wipe included. Allow the area to dry.
- Peel the backing to expose the adhesive and press the bracket onto the desired location on the dashboard. NOTE: Be sure the tab is positioned vertically.
- Allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours before you attach the Drive 3G-Flex (Step 4).
Alternative mounting options available. Contact Customer Support at 866-294-1660 for details.
- Attach the Drive 3G-Flex signal booster to the Mounting Bracket: After waiting 24 hours for the adhesive on the bracket to cure, attach the signal booster by aligning the rectangular hole on the back of the signal booster with the tab on the Mounting Bracket, grasping the sides of the signal booster, and sliding it downward approximately 1½ inch into place. The Mounting Bracket is designed to swivel for more convenient viewing angles. Once the signal booster is in place, you can adjust the angle of the bracket by loosening the knurled nut, applying gentle pressure to the top or bottom of the signal booster, and then tightening the nut when the desired angle is achieved.
- Attach the antenna cable to the antenna connector on the bottom of the signal booster: The antenna cable must be connected before going to the next step.
- Power up your Drive 3G-Flex: Connect the power cable to the mini-USB port on the bottom of the signal booster. Connect the other end of the power cord to the DC adapter and insert the adapter into the vehicle 12V DC power source. Use only the supplied weBoost power supply. While the Drive 3G-Flex may remain on, leaving the Drive 3G-Flex on in a vehicle when it is not running may discharge the battery in a day or two. Also note that some 12V DC power sources are shut down when the vehicle ignition is turned to off.
Alternative Mounting for Weak Signal Areas
If you know you drive through particularly weak signal areas, you may want to mount your signal booster closer to your cell phone when in use. To do this, attach a strip of double-sided Velcro (available at most hardware or fabric stores) to the back of the Drive 3G-Flex and to your center console of your vehicle. Press Drive 3G-Flex to console.
In-Building Installation Option
- Install the antenna to a window: These instructions are for use with the weBoost Magnet-Mount or Mini-Magnet Mount Antenna. If you purchased a different antenna separately, follow the instructions included with that antenna.
- Select a window on the side of the building where you get the strongest cell signal. You can determine the strongest signal area by walking around the building and checking the bars on your mobile phone. You should wait 30 seconds for new signal strength to register. For a more accurate method of determining signal strength, read the instructions at http://www.weboost.com/us/test-mode-instructions.
- With the bracket in place, attach the magnet base of the antenna to the flat surface of the bracket. The antenna must be mounted vertically for the best signal.
Clean a spot as high on the designated window as possible with the alcohol prep pad. Attach the suction cup bracket to the cleaned spot on the inside of the window.
- Attach the antenna to the Drive 3G-Flex signal booster: Connect the cable from the antenna to the connector on the bottom of the signal booster. Do NOT plug in the power supply (step 4) until the antenna cable is connected to the Drive 3G-Flex signal booster.
- Place the Drive 3G-Flex signal booster: Place the Drive 3G-Flex signal booster in a convenient location close to your cellular device. This can be on a desk, a tabletop, a shelf, or the optional desktop mount (sold separately). The Drive 3G-Flex works best when within three feet of your mobile device.
- Connect the Drive 3G-Flex to a power supply: Attach the AC power cord to the mini-USB port on the bottom of the signal booster. Plug the AC power cord into a surge protected power strip.
Many newer energy efficient windows use a metal coating that may decrease the strength of a cellular signal, reducing the effectiveness of the Drive 3G-Flex. If you have dual pane windows, consider a weBoost signal boost product that provides an option for mounting an antenna on an outside wall or roof of a building.
Understanding the Drive 3G-Flex Signal Booster Light
The Signal Boost includes an indicator light on the front of the Drive 3G-Flex. The indicator light will either be green or red.
- Green indicates that the booster is powered and operating at maximum gain.
- Solid Red indicates that the booster has shut off on the associated frequencies to prevent oscillation (feedback).
- Green/red Blinking indicates that the booster is operating at a reduced gain to prevent oscillation (feedback).
Fixing Red Light Issues
If one or more lights on the Signal Boost are red:
- Make sure all connections are tight.
- Increase the distance between the outside antenna and the Drive 3G-Flex, by moving them horizontally and/or vertically farther apart until the light(s) change to green. Remember to keep the antenna at least 6 inches from any window or sunroof.
- Follow the same steps for a green/red blinking light until the light goes solid green.
- If more separation is not possible and the coverage of the booster is too small with a green/red blinking light indicating reduced gain, contact the weBoost Customer Support Team for assistance: 866-294-1660.
Lights Off
- Check connections on the power supply to see that it is firmly plugged into both the Drive 3G-Flex and the power source.
- If using a DC power supply in your vehicle, ensure the power supply is properly inserted. Then check the 12 volt power from the car socket and the fuse. Replace the fuse if necessary.
- If using a power strip in a building, ensure the power strip is plugged in and turned on and that power is coming from the outlet.
NOTE: The Signal Booster can be reset by disconnecting and reconnecting the power supply.
For additional descriptions on troubleshooting, see the install video at weboost.com/us/drive3G-Flexvideo.
Recommended Additional FAQ
What hours can I contact customer support?
Customer Support can be reached from 7:00am to 6:00pm MST, by calling (866-294-1660), or by email, at support@weboost.com.
How does weather affect the performance of my Outside Antenna?
Water vapor (e.g. rain, fog, snow or other precipitation) creates an effective filter to cellular signal. In times of heavy precipitation, you may see less performance.
What's the difference between the 800 MHz and the 1900 MHz bands? How do I know which MHz band my cell phone uses?
The Drive 3G-Flex works with all major North American cellular providers on the 800 & 1900 MHz frequencies. Traditionally, 800/1900MHz are associated with voice and 3G data; while 700MHz and 1700/2100MHz are associated with 4G data. For more detail see below.
Carrier Frequency Use
We recommend visiting www.wirelessadvisor.com (United States) or http://bit.ly/1mQf2GI (Canada) for information regarding the frequency band used by your cell service provider in a specific geographical location.
Inside Antenna Options
Slim Low Profile
- 301152 - w/ 10' RG174
Low Profile
- 311106 - w/ 10' RG58
Antenna Kit Options
Mini-Mag
- 301126 w/12.5 RG174 cable-SMA
- 301113 w/12.5 RG174 cable-FME
12" Mag Mount
- 311103 w/12.5' RG174
- 311125 w/12.5' RG174
- 311128 w/12.5' RG174
- 314202 w/12.5' RG174
- 311703 w/12.5' RG174
Trucker Antenna
- 311101 w/10 5' RG58
- 311701 w/10.5' RG58
- 311119 w/13 5' RG58
- 311133 w/13.5' RG58
NMO Antenna's
- Kit 311104-17410
- 800/1900 NMO antenna
- 10' RG174 cable
- Kit 311112-17410
- 800/1900 NMO antenna
- 10' RG174 cable
- Kit 314203-17410
- 800/900/1900 NMO antenna
- 10' RG174 cable
Marine Antenna
- Kit 311130-5810
- marine antenna
- 10' RG58 cable
Glass Mount
- 311114 (Mini Glass Mount) w/14' RG58 cable
- 311102 w/14' RG58 cable
NMO Antenna's
- Kit 311104-5810
- 800/1900 NMO antenna
- 10' RG58 cable
- Kit 311112-5810
- 800/1900 NMO antenna
- 10' RG58 cable
- Kit 314203-5810
- 800/900/1900 NMO antenna
- 10' RG58 cable
- Kit 311104-40015
- 800/900/1900 NMO antenna
- 15' LMR400 cable
- Kit 311112-40015
- 800/900/1900 NMO antenna
- 15' LMR400 cable
- Kit 314203-40015
- 800/900/1900 NMO antenna
- 15' LMR400 cable
Safety and Recommendations
- ⚠️ WARNING Connecting the Signal Booster directly to the cell phone with use of an adapter will damage the cell phone.
- ⚠️ WARNING Use only the power supply provided in this package. Use of a non-weBoost product may damage your equipment.
- ⚠️ WARNING The Signal Booster unit is designed for use in an indoor, temperature-controlled environment (less than 150 degrees Fahrenheit). It is not intended for use in attics or similar locations subject to temperatures in excess of that range.
- ⚠️ WARNING To uphold compliance with network protection standards, all active wireless devices must maintain at least 20 inches of separation distance from inside antennas.
- ⚠️ RF SAFETY WARNING Any antenna used with this device must be located at least 8 inches from all persons.
This is a CONSUMER device.
BEFORE USE, you MUST REGISTER THIS DEVICE with your wireless provider and have your provider's consent. Most wireless providers consent to the use of signal boosters. Some providers may not consent to the use of this device on their network. If you are unsure, contact your provider.
You MUST operate this device with approved antennas and cables as specified by the manufacturer. Antennas MUST be installed at least 20 cm (8 inches) from any person.
You MUST cease operating this device immediately if requested by the FCC or a licensed wireless service provider.
WARNING. E911 location information may not be provided or may be inaccurate for calls served by using this device.
This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by weBoost could void the authority to operate this equipment.
Each Signal Booster is individually tested and factory set to ensure FCC compliance. The Signal Booster cannot be adjusted without factory reprogramming or disabling the hardware. The Signal Booster will amplify, but not alter incoming and outgoing signals in order to increase coverage of authorized frequency bands only. If the Signal Booster is not in use for five minutes, it will reduce gain until a signal is detected. If a detected signal is too high in a frequency band, or if the Signal Booster detects an oscillation, the Signal Booster will automatically turn the power off on that band. For a detected oscillation the Signal Booster will automatically resume normal operation after a minimum of 1 minute. After 5 (five) such automatic restarts, any problematic bands are permanently shut off until the Signal Booster has been manually restarted by momentarily removing power from the Signal Booster. Noise power, gain, and linearity are maintained by the Signal Booster's microprocessor.
Signal Booster Specifications
| Drive 3G-Flex™ | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model Number | 470013 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Connectors | SMA | ||||||||||||||||||
| Antenna Impedance | 50 Ohms | ||||||||||||||||||
| Frequency | 824-894 MHz/1850-1990 MHz | ||||||||||||||||||
| Passband Gain (nominal) | 800 MHz: 40.8 dB 1900 MHz: 41.7 dB | ||||||||||||||||||
| 20 dB Bandwidth (MHz) | 800 MHz: 40.4 (Typical), 41.5 (Maximum) 1900 MHz: 83.3 (Typical), 84.6 (Maximum) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Power output for single cell phone (dBm) | Uplink: 800 MHz: 26.9 1900 MHz: 26.2 Downlink: 800 MHz: -3.5 1900 MHz: 2.2 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Power output for multiple received channels (Uplink) dBm |
| ||||||||||||||||||
| Power output for multiple received channels (Downlink) dBm |
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| Noise Figure (typical downlink/uplink) | 3 dB nominal | ||||||||||||||||||
| Isolation | > 90 dB | ||||||||||||||||||
| Power Requirements | 5 V 1.5 A |
The Manufacturer's rated output power of this equipment is for single carrier operation. For situations when multiple carrier signals are present, the rating would have to be reduced by 3.5 dB, especially where the output signal is re-radiated and can cause interference to adjacent band users. This power reduction is to be by means of input power or gain reduction and not by an attenuator at the output of the device.
Warranty
2-Year Warranty
weBoost Signal Boosters are warranted for two (2) years against defects in workmanship and/or materials. Warranty cases may be resolved by returning the product directly to the reseller with a dated proof of purchase.
Signal Boosters may also be returned directly to the manufacturer at the consumer's expense, with a dated proof of purchase and a Returned Material Authorization (RMA) number supplied by weBoost. weBoost shall, at its option, either repair or replace the product. weBoost will pay for delivery of the repaired or replaced product back to the original consumer if located within the continental U.S.
This warranty does not apply to any Signal Boosters determined by weBoost to have been subjected to misuse, abuse, neglect, or mishandling that alters or damages physical or electronic properties.
Failure to use a surge protected AC Power Strip with at least a 1000 Joule rating will void your warranty.
RMA numbers may be obtained by contacting Customer Support at 866-294-1660.
Disclaimer
The information provided by weBoost is believed to be complete and accurate. However, no responsibility is assumed by weBoost for any business or personal losses arising from its use, or for any infringements of patents or other rights of third parties that may result from its use.
Copyright © 2014 weBoost. All rights reserved.
weBoost products covered by U.S. patent(s) and pending application(s)
For patents go to: weboost.com/us/patents
