In today’s world, mobile signal has become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Whether making calls, sending texts, or browsing the internet, a stable signal connection is crucial. However, many people often confuse the terms “signal strength” and “signal quality.” In this article, we will clarify these concepts and help you better understand the differences between mobile signal strength and signal quality.
Signal Strength vs. Signal Quality: What’s the Difference?
Signal Strength
Signal strength refers to the power of the signal received by your mobile phone from the base station, typically measured in decibels milliwatts (dBm). The higher the signal strength value, the stronger the signal; the lower the value, the weaker the signal. The factors that mainly affect signal strength include:
-Distance from the Base Station: The farther you are from the base station, the weaker the signal.
-Obstacles: Buildings, mountains, trees, and other obstructions can weaken the signal.
-Weather Conditions: Severe weather, such as heavy rain or snow, can also affect signal strength.
Signal Quality
Signal quality refers to the clarity and stability of the signal, typically measured by parameters like Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and Bit Error Rate (BER). The quality of the signal directly impacts call clarity and data transfer stability. Factors influencing signal quality include:
-Interference: Interference from electronic devices, power lines, and other wireless signals can degrade signal quality.
-Network Congestion: During peak hours or in densely populated areas, network congestion can lead to poor signal quality.
-Multipath Effect: When a signal encounters reflections or refractions during transmission, it can result in degraded signal quality.
How to Measure Mobile Signal Strength and Quality?
You can measure your mobile signal strength and quality using an app called “Cellular-Z,” which is available in the Android app market. By simply opening the app, you can check the signal status in your area.
Signal Strength
-RSRP Value > -80 dBm: Excellent signal strength.
-RSRP Value > -100 dBm: Good signal strength.
-RSRP Value < -100 dBm: Poor signal strength.
As shown in the image below, an RSRP value of -89 indicates good signal strength.
Signal Quality
-SINR Value > 5: Good signal quality.
-SINR Value between 0-5: Signal is experiencing some interference.
-SINR Value < 0: The signal is heavily interfered with.
As shown in the image below, a SINR value of 15 indicates excellent signal quality.
How to Improve Mobile Signal Strength and Quality?
Both signal strength and signal quality are essential for improving your mobile signal. Signal strength determines whether you can receive a signal, while signal quality ensures you can use that signal reliably.
For those looking to improve their mobile signal, using a mobile signal booster is the most comprehensive and reliable solution to address both signal strength and quality issues.
Lintratek, with over 13 years of experience in the mobile signal booster industry, offers a full range of products, from low-power home signal boosters to commercial-grade fiber optic repeaters. Whether you’re looking for solutions for residential, commercial, or industrial environments, Lintratek provides the best mobile signal coverage solutions.
Post time: Jan-15-2025