Cellcom Consumer Signal Booster Registration & Interference Notification

Signal boosters are devices that can help cell phone users improve their coverage in areas where they do not get a great cellular reception. For example, signal boosters can be placed in homes or offices to provide increased signal strength for cell phones, which may let the user complete a call in areas where they previously couldn't. When these devices are properly installed, they can help consumers, wireless service providers, and public safety first responders by extending cell phone coverage to areas that would otherwise have weak signals such as tunnels, subways, inside buildings, and in rural areas.

Although signal boosters can improve cell phone coverage, malfunctioning, poorly designed, or improperly installed signal boosters can interfere with wireless networks and cause interference to a range of calls, including emergency and 911 calls.

Signal Booster Registration Requirements

Registering your signal booster is easy and will ensure you are in compliance with FCC rules. It will also assist Cellcom if interference issues arise.

What are the FCC Registration Requirements?

On February 20, 2013, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted new rules governing the design and operation of consumer signal boosters, which are boosters designed to improve coverage in vehicles, homes and small offices.

The new FCC requirements for customers that own and operate a consumer signal booster include:

Obtain carrier approval prior to operating a signal booster
Register the booster with their service provider

By registering your booster, you agree that the cellular booster meets all FCC requirements.

Note: After March 1, 2014, all consumer boosters sold in the United States will be required to meet new network protection standards intended to reduce the likelihood that consumer boosters will interfere with wireless networks and devices.

These new boosters will display this new warning label:

Label with a yellow heading "This is a consumer device." Followed by "Before use, you must register this device..."

Consent to Operate

Cellcom consent to operate a signal booster on Cellcom’s network is limited to the personal use of signal boosters certified by the FCC under 47 C.F.R. section 20.21(a). Registration of a signal booster with Cellcom does not mean that Cellcom has consented to the operation of non-certified signal boosters on its network. Under FCC rules, any signal booster, whether certified by the FCC or not, that causes harmful interference to Cellcom's network or to its customers must cease operation immediately upon notice from Cellcom or the FCC.

Does it cost anything to register?

No. It does not cost anything to register a booster.

If I have multiple signal boosters, does each one need to be registered?

Yes, each booster should be registered at the location it will be used.

I have a network extender. Do I need to register that?

No, network extenders operate differently than signal boosters and do not require registration.

Interference Notification

If Cellcom suspects interference, our cell site technicians may visit your home or business with some information on interference. If you've received information from one of our technicians at your home, please contact us at 866-596-8611 or interference@cellcom.com with your reference number for details on next steps we need to take to eliminate the interference.

What is interference?

Radio systems operate on assigned frequencies. This allows different services such as mobile radios, local wireless networks, and others to operate without transmitting on the same frequency. When different wireless services are broadcasting on the same frequency it can cause signal collisions and interference. Most interference is caused by powered wireless equipment inadvertently broadcasting on licensed radio frequencies.

What causes cellular radio interference?

There are several potential causes of interference, and any powered wireless device has the ability to generate interference. Here are some of the most common sources:

Cellular boosters
Amplified TV antennas
Wireless home phones, baby monitors, and microphone systems
Wireless modems and routers

How does Cellcom locate interference?

Cellcom Radio Frequency (RF) Cell Site Technicians use information from cell site monitoring and specialized equipment to identify and locate the most likely source of cell site interference.

How can I identify a Cellcom RF Technician?

Cellcom RF Technicians will arrive in a marked Cellcom company vehicle, hold a Cellcom identification badge, and will always identify themselves. If it is necessary to enter a home or business to troubleshoot, they will always ask for consent prior to entering and follow any necessary precautions.

What happens when a Cellcom RF Technician locates interference?

Once the source of interference has been identified, the RF Technician may visit your home or business to leave a door hanger. This hanger includes general information on cellular interference, potential sources of interference, and how to contact Cellcom.

Why does Cellcom search for cellular radio interference?

Cellcom towers use FCC licensed frequency, and Cellcom is legally obligated to operate its cellular network in accordance with FCC regulations. This includes keeping our network free of interference to ensure that subscribers on the network have the best experience possible. Cellular interference can cause issues with 911 calls and other emergency services, which has a negative impact on public safety.

How can I determine the source of cellular radio interference on my property?

A Cellcom RF Technician can suggest possible sources of interference and help to identify external equipment that may be a source, such as antennas. If the source of interference is not clear, it is best to power off any equipment that could potentially cause interference, and verify the interference subsides. Then the equipment can be powered up, one by one, to determine which device is responsible. In some cases, a Cellcom RF Technician may ask to coordinate with you in person to troubleshoot the issue locally.

In many cases, the equipment generating the interference may be working properly. It is also possible for equipment to start generating radio interference after not causing an issue previously.

What happens when Cellcom identifies my equipment as a source of interference?

Cellcom will make a reasonable attempt to find a solution that allows you to use your equipment without generating interference. If the equipment is defective and generates radio interference when it is operated, the equipment will need to be powered down or replaced. Cellcom is not responsible for replacing or compensating you for equipment that generates interference.

What happens if I choose not to comply?

Cellcom will make all reasonable attempts to resolve the issue in a way that works with your schedule and availability. If you choose not to cooperate or the interference is especially severe, Cellcom may choose to refer the case to the FCC or other proper authorities for investigation. Most consumer electronics are governed by FCC Part-15 rules, and these rules allow you to operate the device under the condition that it does not interfere with licensed radio networks, including the Cellcom network.