Table of Contents
01. Introduction to QUATRA 4000
02. Regulatory // Model Number: Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000
03. Regulatory // Model Number: Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000i
04. System Overview
05. Hardware Components
06. The WAVE Portal
07. Installation
08. LEDs
09. Diagnostics and Testing
10. Antenna Kitting
11. Advanced Information - Antennas and QUATRA 4000
12. Specifications
13. Trademarks
14. Warranty and Limitation of Liability
15. Compliance
16. Glossary
17. Troubleshooting
About This Guide
There are a variety of Cel-Fi QUATRA product variants available, supporting a variety of band configurations, for multiple regions. This manual is applicable to the Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 and 4000i ONLY, and does not apply to any other QUATRA variants.
Safety Precautions
- Use Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 indoors. It should not be used outdoors.
- These products are designed to be used with the power supply unit that shipped with the Network Unit. When installing the equipment, all the requirements of the manufacturer and the referenced standards must be met.
- There are no user serviceable parts inside.
Caution: Changes or modifications to this product not expressly approved by Nextivity may void your right to operate the equipment.
01. Introduction to QUATRA 4000
Understanding Cellular Coverage
Spotty cellular coverage, poor voice quality, dropped calls, and dead zones continue to plague occupants in buildings of all shapes and sizes. Cel-Fi QUATRA solves that problem. It is an affordable, all-digital solution, providing uniform, high-quality cellular signals throughout a building. Cel-Fi QUATRA is scalable to fit buildings of all sizes and is carrier approved and guaranteed network safe.
Unlike traditional analog boosters and passive DAS technology, QUATRA delivers a cellular signal that is up to 1000x stronger, utilizing CAT 5e (or better) cabling for the connection between the head end and each remote. The remotes are powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE), delivering an un-attenuated signal throughout the building. Cel-Fi QUATRA can be installed in just days (compared to months typical of other solutions), and at a price point that meets the middleprise budget.
The QUATRA Solution
While cellular networks are outside, the majority of calls take place inside. A recent study showed 80% of business users inside complain of poor coverage or dropped calls. Modern building materials, while improving energy efficiency, will block or inhibit cellular service from the outside network. To exacerbate the issue, cellular coverage is increasingly critical. In fact, cellular coverage can be considered a safety or even regulatory requirement, depending on the region. Building owners need a flexible, high-quality solution. Installers and Value-Added Resellers need a product that can serve the majority of building types and not take months to deploy.
- Cel-Fi created a new solution category that combines its core technology with the architecture of an Active DAS – to deliver an Active DAS Hybrid – carrier-grade but built for Installers.
- Integrators and Carriers have partnered with Cel-Fi to deliver a smart solution designed for middleprise buildings - Cel-Fi QUATRA solutions.
- Cel-Fi provides the QUATRA BOM Estimator to help installers select the appropriate equipment in the right quantity, to eliminate the heavy cost/time of the (pre) planning effort.
- Cel-Fi’s all-digital, scalable, PoE Category cable-based solution makes it ideal for Single or Multi-Carrier environments.
Speed of Installation, higher quality in-building cellular solutions, and cost savings – are some of the reasons building owners, facility managers, and IT professionals are making the smart investment in Cel-Fi QUATRA solutions.
Comment About FCC Certification
There are two variants available for the Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000:
- Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000
The QUATRA 4000 is FCC Part 20 certified. It supports bands 2, 4, 5, 12, 13 and 25 - Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000i
The QUATRA 4000i is FCC Part 90 certified. It supports bands 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, 25, 26, 30, 41 and 71*
* Band 71 pending FCC approval
A Solution Anyone Can Confidently Deploy
Cel-Fi QUATRA is designed to improve indoor signal coverage without any risk of interference on the mobile network. Cel-Fi QUATRA provides a sophisticated network-safe solution that has been rigorously tested globally, through multiple generations, engineered to deliver multiple levels of network protection:
- Uplink power control to prevent desensitizing the network
- Echo-cancellation and feedback control
- Uplink muting, when handsets (UE) are not detected
- Signal qualification (channels are individually qualified, so noise or very poor signals won’t be amplified and degrade the network)
- The Cel-Fi WAVE Platform cloud-based portal enables an operator to monitor equipment and network KPI’s, such as channel configurations, RSRP, RSCP, SINR, and system gains, providing control and optimization insight.
02. Regulatory // Model Number: Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000
FCC Part 20 Certified
The QUATRA 4000 is FCC Part 20 certified.
Bands Supported Under This FCC Certification
| AT&T | 12 & 5 | 12 & 25 | 12 & 4 | 12 & 2 | |
| Sprint | 5 & 25 | 5 & 2 | |||
| T-Mobile | 25 & 4 | 25 & 12 | 4 & 12 | 2 & 4 | 2 & 12 |
| Verizon | 13 & 25 | 13 & 4 | 13 & 2 |
03. Regulatory // Model Number: Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000i
FCC Part 90 Certified
The QUATRA 4000i is FCC Part 90 certified.
Bands Supported Under This FCC Certification
| AT&T | 12 & 5 | 12 & 25 | 12 & 4 | 12 & 2 | 30 & 5 | 30 & 25 | 30 & 4 | 30 & 2 |
| Sprint | 5 & 25 | 5 & 2 | 26 & 25 | 26 & 2 | 41 & 26 | 41 & 25 | 41 & 2 | 41 & 5 |
| T-Mobile | 25 & 4 | 25 & 12 | 4 & 12 | 4 & 71 | 25 & 71 | 2 & 4 | 2 & 12 | 2 & 71 |
| Verizon | 13 & 25 | 13 & 4 | 13 & 2 |
* The above is subject to change with FCC regulatory changes
How Does It Work?
Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 is a powerful cellular signal distribution solution. Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 is fundamentally comprised of a Network Unit (NU) and up to six (6) Coverage Units (per NU). The Network Unit takes the donor input from up to four (4) carrier signal sources. The signal source can be off-air (over-the-air (OTA)) from the macro network or delivered via a small cell.
The NU receives and individually processes channels from each carrier, allowing a higher gain for weaker channels (up to 100 dB). The channels are digitized and sent over a pair of Ethernet cables to each CU for retransmission through one or more service antennas.
The system may also be used with one QUATRA 4000 FIBER HUB, which functions much like an NU with up to six (6) additional CUs. The HUB is connected to the NU with up to 2km of optical fiber cable and SFP+ Modules (sold separately), and it uses donor signals from the connected NU.
Architecture Overview
Real World Examples
1. Off Air Install, 75K ft2 building
In this example, Cel-Fi QUATRA is providing cellular coverage for four carriers in a six story 75,000 ft2 building. Individual LPDA antennas are located on the top of the building to ensure the best signal-to-noise ratio for all four carriers. Four coax cables are pulled through the roof to Network Unit. A Coverage Unit is placed on each floor, and a distributed antenna system (DAS) field is run out from each CU to provide great coverage.
2. Supercell Install, 300K ft2 building
This building did not have adequate donor signals for the four Operators, so small cells were chosen as the signal sources. The system is comprised of four (4) QUATRA 4000 systems served with one small cell from each wireless operator. The small cell signals are split and input to each QUATRA 4000 NU. From the QUATRA 4000 NU the signals are distributed to CUs on each floor and then horizontally to a DAS field, providing coverage to the building.
3. Hybrid Install, Off-Air + Small Cell
In this example, the building site has excellent (exterior) network service for two carriers, but the other two carriers’ outside signals are very poor. The System Integrator has decided to use a hybrid approach, taking off-air signals from the two carriers with good service and implementing small cells for the two remaining carriers.
Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 Key Features
- Carrier Grade, FCC-certified Smart Signal Booster
- Support for AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and Sprint
- Relays two (2) bands per operator, simultaneously
- Independent donor ports for each operator allows for independent antenna optimization
- Single combined (CU) server port enables driving either a serving antenna or passive DAS field
- 100 dB max system gain
- 140MHz total relay bandwidth
- Support for up to six (6) CUs (twelve with a HUB)
- N-type RF connectors (donor and server)
- Internal modem for remote management (SIM slot access)
- Industrial aluminum powder-coated housing
- Up to 100m cable distance between NU and CU (using Cat5e), or 150m using 22/23AWG CAT6/7
- QUATRA Range Extender (QRE) doubles CU cable length (up to 300m)
- 20-22 dBm uplink power per operator per band
- 16 dBm downlink power per operator per band
Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 Service Agreement
- Every NU will be bundled with a 1-year product Service Agreement
- The Service Agreement may be renewed on an annual basis
- Upon request once the system installation is complete, Nextivity will review key system KPI's and provide feedback on the installation.
- Nextivity will monitor systems for any alarms and perform Level 1 remote troubleshooting for each alarm.
Learn more about our Service Agreement.
Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 is a modular solution with two (2) foundational components: the Network Unit (NU) and the Coverage Unit (CU). In traditional DAS terminology these could be known as the Head End (NU) and the Remote Unit (CU).
Power is provided to the entire system through AC power at the NU. The CUs are powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE), and therefore do not require a separate power source at their location. Signal source is brought into the system at the NU, via a wired connection, like a small cell, or through a donor antenna and an RF connection.
Network Unit (NU)
The Network Unit, referred to as the NU, is the head end for the QUATRA 4000 system. The signal sources (one for each port/carrier) are connected to the NU. Then they are digitized and distributed over two Category “Ethernet” cables to the Coverage Units (CU).
QUATRA 4000 Network Unit
Note: Only cellular signals may be connected to the donor ports. Other types of radio signals will not work, and may damage the system.
The NU has four (4) N-type RF ports on the top. Each RF port is assigned, and marked, to a specific carrier.
There are two (2) SMA-female ports on the top of the NU. One functions as the external antenna connection for the unit’s internal cellular modem, and the other is for GPS. (The GPS port is for future functionality)
Power
- AC Power Supply (inside the NU)
- AC power cord
Physical Interface
- RJ45 ports (13)
- Twelve RJ45 ports (2 for each of the 6 CUs)
- One LAN port for remote management
- SFP+ module dock (for use with a Fiber HUB)
- N-type Female RF Ports (4) for Donor Antennas
- One for each carrier
- SMA ports (2 for the internal LTE modem)
User Interface
- LED interface (front) to indicate system status. (For detail on the LED go to LEDs.)
- Power
- CU1
- CU2
- CU3
- CU4
- CU5
- CU6
- SFP+
- LAN
- MODEM
Power Supply Cable
Coverage Unit (CU)
The Coverage Unit (CU) receives the digitized cellular signal from the NU, converts back to RF, amplifies, and distributes the service from its RF port. Service can be deployed through a single connected antenna, or through a DAS field.
QUATRA 4000 Coverage Unit
The Coverage Unit includes a multi-band blade style antenna that can be connected directly to the CU.
Cel-Fi Blade Antenna
Accessories
QUATRA 4000 FIBER HUB
Model Number: Q40-1234FNU
The HUB functions much like an NU, except it does not have donor antenna ports. It connects to an NU over optical fiber cable (up to 2km) using SFP+ modules, and it adds up to six more CUs to an NU (twelve CUs total).
QUATRA 4000 FIBER HUB
QUATRA 4000 Range Extender (QRE4K)
Model Number: Q40-OE
The QRE-4K unit is a device that extends the standard 100 meter cable length from NU to CU up to 200 meters with Cat5e, or up to 300m if CAT6/7, 23AWG cable is used. It is inserted in-line between the NU and CU, and requires no external power. The RJ45 connectors are on each side (two per side). Traditional Ethernet extenders will not work with QUATRA.
Donor Antennas
The donor antennas are used to provide off-air signals to individual carrier donor input ports. The objective is to provide the best quality carrier signals to the NU. A variety of donor antennas are available from Nextivity. The right donor antenna choice can make the difference between a good outcome and a great outcome. Please refer to other antenna-specific documents for choosing the right donor antenna.
Cel-Fi LPDA-R Antenna
Model Number: A62-V44-200
Cel-Fi LPDA-R Antenna
Nextivity recommends its LPDA-R antenna for use as a great donor antenna for most situations. Learn more about our Antenna options.
Server Antenna
The server antenna connects to the RF port on the CU.
Server Antenna port
A variety of Server antennas are available from Nextivity. Visit the Antenna Product page for details and updates.
Couplers
RF couplers or tappers may be used with Coverage Units when multiple service antennas are desired. Careful system design should be implemented to insure sufficient power levels into all antennas.
Introduction
Cel-Fi WAVE is Nextivity’s SOC2 Type 1 compliant cloud-based software platform from which Cel-Fi apps and connected capabilities are hosted and driven. Current-generation Cel-Fi products feature embedded connectivity that allows them to connect to the WAVE cloud. The WAVE portal and apps are used to facilitate software updates, registration, commissioning, installation, optimization, and troubleshooting. The Cel-Fi WAVE platform continues to expand in features and function.
In order to use the WAVE portal and related capabilities, you must be registered with the system.
Setup LAN Firewall Connection to the WAVE Portal
Verify that a live LAN Ethernet cable is connected to the Network Unit LAN port (not the LAN OUT port which is used to daisy-chain to another Network Unit LAN port). Check the LAN firewall settings to the cloud.
Alarms, Alerts, and Policies
Cel-Fi systems support a variety of standard alarm conditions.
Use the Notifications page in the WAVE portal to view a listing of notifications (alerts) sent to inform specified users of alarm conditions occurring in installed systems, or assets within systems. You can access and view Notification Detail by double-clicking a displayed notification.
The Main Alarms
| Error Indication | Name | Meaning |
| ES1 | NU HW | Network Unit hardware error |
| ES2 | Not Receiving Signal | Insufficient donor Signal |
| ES3 | CU HW | Coverage Unit hardware error |
| ES4 | Input too strong | Donor signal (RSRP) too strong |
| ES5 | NU Overheating | Network Unit is overheating |
| ES6 | CU Overheating | Coverage Unit is overheating |
| ES7 | Too Close | Not applicable for QUATRA |
| ES8 | Too Far | Not applicable for QUATRA |
| ES9 | Disabled by operator | Not applicable for QUATRA |
| ES10 | Location Lock | Not applicable for QUATRA |
| ES11 | New Registration Required | Not applicable for QUATRA |
| ES12 | Self-Test Failed | System self-test has failed |
| Ethernet Link Error | An error has been detected in the link between the NU and CU | |
| CU Shutdown from Portal | A CU has been shut down remotely from the WAVE portal |
User Profiles
User profiles are created in the Wave Portal. User Profile is where individual account information is stored, as well as any Group assignments.
Important: Before any permanent installation, make sure all the components are planned and accounted for, as well as any wiring, cabling, power, mounting, antenna placements, and system access.
Overview
Several things need to be determined as part of installation planning and preparation.
- Perform indoor and outdoor signal surveys to understand current signal problems and to assess candidate donor antenna locations
- Determine where the NU(s) will be mounted
- Ensure adequate power source (outlet)
- Determine donor signal sources and cabling/routing
- Ensure access to the Category cable runs, connecting to the CU(s)
- Determine where the CU(s) will be mounted and how coverage is to be distributed
- Determine if the (included) Mini Panel Antenna will be used or a DAS field, for each CU
- If coaxial cable and antennas are planned for use then that should be considered at this point
Note: IBWAVE (or other RF planning tools) designs are not required but are a good way to ensure the best performance outcomes.
Installing the NU
Mounting
The Cel-Fi QUATRA NU is designed for simple wall mounting. Mounting accessories, including screws and anchors, for common material types (drywall, plywood, etc) are included with each NU.
Equipment Required for Mounting
- Drill
- Drill bit extender (3”+)
- Hammer
- Pencil, or other similar marker
- Level
Caution: Make sure the area behind any surface is free of electrical wires or other dangerous elements prior to drilling.
The QUATRA 4000 NU has four (4) secure mounting tabs, two on each side. The two topmost tabs have been keyholed.
Note: The Mounting Instructions below use the standard drywall mounting anchors and screws included with the unit. If the NU is to be mounted onto other surfaces, make sure the appropriate anchors and screws are used (not included).
1. To mount the NU, first determine the approximate location on the wall for the unit.
2. Hold the unit up on the wall and, using a pencil or similar marker, mark one of the top (right or left) points.
3. Drill the holes for the anchors.
4. Hammer in the anchors.
5. Partially screw in the top two screws.
6. Hang the unit from the top two screws, through the eyeholes. Adjust the unit to level and then tighten the screws.
7. Screw in the bottom two screws.
8. Mounting is complete.
Connecting Donor Sources
The QUATRA 4000 has four independent RF ports for connecting the donor signal. Each port:
- Is an N-type Female connector
- Is specific to the supported operator
- Is designed to support a variety of band configurations
Donor Antenna
Each RF port can be fed by a donor signal consisting of either a small cell or an antenna. Nextivity offers a number of donor signals perfect for use with Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000.
Note: Small cell inputs and off-air inputs can be used in the same system, but not for the same donor port.
The donor antenna is used to collect the donor signal from the external (over-the-air) carrier network. Better donor signals lead to better customer experiences, improved voice quality and faster data throughput. An RSRP signal-to-noise ratio (SiNR) of > 0 dB is strongly recommended for each given carrier’s source signal. Better SiNR leads to better throughput.
Each donor antenna should be mounted safely and securely where it can access the desired cellular network. A coaxial cable connects the donor antenna to the NU’s RF port for each given carrier.
Small Cell Donor
If a small cell is used as the donor source then it should be connected at this time. The input signal level for the donor port should be between -60 and -50 dBm.
Note: the small cell should be fully-operational in standalone mode prior to being connected to the QUATRA 4000.
Power
The QUATRA 4000 system is powered from the Network Unit (NU). The NU comes with a power cord that plugs in to the back of the unit. The Coverage Units (CU) are Powered-over-Ethernet (PoE) and therefore do not have independent power supplies that need to be plugged in.
The entire system should be installed before the system is powered-on.
Note: It is recommended to zip-tie or otherwise secure the power cord once the system is powered-up, to prevent accidental unplugging.
Installing a CU
Wall Mounting
The Coverage Unit (CU) comes with a wall mounting bracket in the box. To mount the QUATRA 4000 CU simply follow these steps:
1. Determine mounting location. Note: Whenever mounting any Cel-Fi gear on a wall or ceiling make sure the area is free of any dangerous electrical wires, other safety hazards, or any other objects that could be damaged or effect the quality or stability of the mounted unit.
2. Position the QUATRA 4000 CU wall mount on the wall in the desired mounting location.
3. Holding the mounting bracket in place, mark hole locations with a pencil.
4. Drill the holes.
5. Hammer in the anchors.
6. Attach the bracket to the wall with the included screws.
7. Once the bracket is firmly attached to the wall, the CU can be attached to the bracket.
8. With the bracket in place, attach the CU.
9. Tighten (finger) each Locking Screw into place to ensure the CU is securely attached. The CU may also be mounted to many surfaces with appropriate Unistrut hardware.
Connecting Server Antenna(s)
The CU has an N-type connector on the top of the unit for attaching an antenna. An Omni-directional antenna is included with each CU, or a coaxial cable can be connected with a series of passive antennas attached.
Connecting Server Antenna or Cable
Connecting NU and CU
Each CU connects to the NU using two Ethernet cables (Cat5e or better).
CU port assignment on the NU
Using a QRE
If cable distances greater than 100 meters from NU to CU are required (150m if using 22/23 AWG CAT6/7 cable), a QUATRA RANGE EXTENDER (QRE-4K) may be used in the middle of the cable run to achieve lengths up to 300m.
Note: Only the QUATRA 4000 RANGE EXTENDER (QRE-4K) may be used. The QUATRA 1000 and QUATRA 2000 QRE is not compatible with the QUATRA 4000.
NU
The QUATRA 4000 NU has ten (10) LEDs on the front of the unit, used as status indicators, during setup and normal operation. The LEDs are labeled.
NU LEDs
The LEDs on the front of the QUATRA 4000 function as follows:
| LED Label | LED State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| POWER | NO LIGHT | No power |
| SOLID GREEN | Powered and operating normally | |
| FLASHING GREEN | Scanning to acquire network signals | |
| SOLID RED | Hardware error | |
| FLASHING RED | Error | |
| CU1, CU2, CU3, CU4, CU5, CU6 | NO LIGHT | Not connected properly, no power |
| SOLID GREEN | Connected, powered and operating normally | |
| SFP+ | SOLID GREEN | SFP+ module installed, and communicating properly |
| FLASHING GREEN | SFP+ module installed, not communicating | |
| LAN | SOLID GREEN | Link is up |
| FLASHING GREEN | Link is up and active | |
| MODEM | SOLID GREEN | Modem is installed, connected, and has an IP address |
| FLASHING GREEN | Modem is attempting to connect | |
| FLASHING RED | Modem error |
CU
Each QUATRA 4000 CU has three (3) LEDs on the front of the unit, used as status indicators, during setup and normal operation. The LEDs are labeled.
CU LEDs
The meaning for each LED on the CU is shown in the table below.
| LED Label | LED State | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| POWER | NO LIGHT | No power |
| SOLID GREEN | Powered and operating normally | |
| FLASHING GREEN | Network scanning | |
| SOLID RED | Hardware error | |
| FLASHING RED | Error | |
| NU LINK | NO LIGHT | Logical Link: Down |
| SOLID GREEN | Logical Link: Up | |
| CABLE LINK | NO LIGHT | Physical Link: Down |
| SOLID GREEN | Physical Link: Up |
WAVE PRO and COMPASS
Introduction
Cel-Fi COMPASS is a hand-held battery operated device specifically designed to simplify the installation of all QUATRA variants, without the need for an Internet connection to the WAVE Portal in the cloud.
Note: The WAVE Portal is a very powerful and time saving system. Nextivity highly recommends that you still connect your QUATRA systems to the Internet for WAVE Portal remote management, alarms, and diagnostics.
Note: COMPASS has its own User Manual. Included here are only those items that relate specifically to the QUATRA 4000.
QR Code for WAVE PRO
Cel-Fi QUATRA Installation Features
Overview
When it’s not possible to open a LAN connection between a Cel-Fi QUATRA Network Unit (the NU) and the Cel-Fi WAVE Portal, these features will help installers setup Cel-Fi systems quickly and efficiently. While complete provisioning and optimization using the WAVE Portal is preferred, we understand that it's not always possible.
Note: Many features in the WAVE Portal are not available when using this tool. These include Commissioning, Operator Configuration, feature settings such as “disable software updates” and access to key performance data used in remote management.
Updating QUATRA Software
From time to time, the QUATRA 4000 firmware will be updated for feature improvements and bug fixes.
Updating QUATRA 4000 firmware can be accomplished in either of two ways:
- Using WAVE PRO
- Launch the WAVE PRO app.
- Connect the LAN port on the QUATRA’s NU to an active Ethernet LAN.
- Initiate the update from the Systems page Options menu.
- The unit will update its firmware automatically, communicating with Nextivity’s cloud.
- Using COMPASS
- Update the COMPASS’ software by connecting it to an active Internet connection.
- Connect the COMPASS to the QUATRA NU and follow the instructions on the WAVE PRO app.
COMPASS connected to Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000
Band Settings
1. All Cel-Fi QUATRA variants will select bands and channels to relay automatically.
2. Optionally, bands may be enabled/disabled using the Bands Settings feature using COMPASS and the WAVE Pro app.
- From the main menu, tap on “Bands Settings”
- Select the band preference and then tap “Update”
Cel-Fi QUATRA Optimization Features
Antenna Positioning
The QUATRA 4000 system can accept up to four individual donor signals. One per carrier. Each donor can be established to the system either via small cell or off-air. When using an off-air signal, a directional antenna is recommended to provide the best signal quality. (Nextivity offers a number of directional antennas that can be used. See www.cel-fi.com/products for details.)
The Antenna Pointing feature allows you to easily optimize the direction your external antenna should be pointed. The algorithm takes into account the system gain and radio environment (including signal strength, signal quality, and pilot pollution).
This feature is designed to work with the Cel-Fi Mount, which is an indoor/outdoor mount with a proprietary 8-position dial base. This dial enables the antenna to be rotated in 45-degree increments.
- Make sure the Cel-Fi COMPASS is connected to the donor antenna using the (included) RP-SMA to N adaptor cable.
- The SIM card in COMPASS must be removed when using this feature.
- Click on “Antenna Positioning” in the WAVE PRO app.
- Rotate your antenna to a position on the dial mount and tap the corresponding number button. You will need to test 2 or more positions to see results.
- For each carrier channel, the app displays position information on donor signal quality.
- Current test results may be exported using the Options menu.
Signal Report
A Full Signal Report scans all bands and channels for each carrier and returns a list of the channels it finds with RF metrics.
- The SIM card in COMPASS must be removed when using this feature.
- Go to the optimization section in the WAVE PRO app and click on “Full Signal Report”.
- Press the "Start Test" button to begin measuring.
- Current scan results may be exported using the Options menu.
You can export the Signal Report by selecting the "More" icon and "Email Report". Type in your email address and results will be sent as a text attachment.
Speed Test
This feature tests the speed of the current Network Carrier of the SIM card inserted into the COMPASS.
- In the WAVE PRO app, go to the “Optimization” section and press the "Speed Test" button.
- Click on “Start,” and The Cel-Fi COMPASS will gather data for several minutes and display the results below.
Serving Cell Report
The Serving Cell Report is a live reading of the current Network Carrier of the SIM card inserted into the Cel-Fi COMPASS. The data will constantly refresh while on the page.
The QUATRA 4000 and 4000i are designed to be used with the following antennas.
Donor Antennas
1. LPDA Antenna
Model Number: A62-V44-100
The Cel-Fi LPDA Antenna offers a powerful 12 or 14dBi gain (depending on carrier frequency) over 698-2700 MHz and is designed to reduce out of band noise, to improve SiNR and overall signal quality. Mounting is made simple with a mast down-tilt bracket and U-Bolts. This enables you to mount the antenna on a flat surface or a pole. A 45 degree mount attachment enables the antenna to be mounted at a tilt, for optimal matching of macro donor signals.
- Suitable for all mobile carriers
- 5G-ready
- Comes with mast down-tilt bracket and U-Bolt mounts
- Includes 27 cm RG58 Cable N-type Female connector
- Fully welded construction
Note: Use the LPDA-R Antenna (A62-V44-200) if you require Band 71 (617MHz+).
2. LPDA-R Antenna
Model Number: A62-V44-200
The Cel-Fi LPDA-R Antenna offers a powerful 12 to 14 dBi gain (depending on carrier frequency) over 617–4000 MHz and is designed to reduce out of band noise, to improve SiNR and overall signal quality. Mounting is made simple with included U-Bolts. This Cel-Fi product also features a 10K ohm resistor that enables the antenna connection to be validated by Cel-Fi Network Units equipped with the capability.
- 12–14 dBi gain
- 5G-ready
- Narrow beam-width to reduce noise
- Rugged construction for harsh environments
- Includes a 10K ohm resistor for special Cel-Fi applications
3. Cel-Fi Wideband Directional Antenna
Model Number: A32-V32-100/101
The Cel-Fi Wideband Directional Antenna is an outdoor vertically polarized highly directional antenna for Cellular Boosters; with 10 dB gain in the low bands and 11 dB gain in the high bands. The weather resistant housing is built with UV stabilized ABS plastic casing. Optimized for Cel-Fi products, the Cel-Fi Wideband Directional Antenna works great with the Cel-Fi WAVE Antenna positioning app. The unit includes standard brackets for mounting, and can also be used with the Cel-Fi Pole Mount.
- Boosts Cell Signal by up to 11 dBi
- 5G-ready
- 700 – 2700 MHz Frequency
- Vertical Polarization
- Uni-Directional
Server Antennas
1. Indoor Omni Antenna
Model Number: A11-V43-100/101
The Indoor Omni Antenna receives and transmits signal in a 360° pattern and are compatible with the 698 - 2700 MHz frequency ranges that include 3G and 4G signals. They come with an SMA Male Connector.
- 3G/4G/LTE wideband cellular antenna
- SMA-male connector
- Omni-directional
Note: -101 part number includes an N-type connector
2. (Low-Profile) LP SISO Indoor Omni Antenna
Model Number: A11-H43-201
Nextivity’s Cel-Fi LP SISO Indoor Omni Antenna provides a 360-degree horizontal coverage pattern in an ultra-modern, low-profile, high performance industrial design.
- Indoor use
- 5G-ready
- SISO
- 50 ohm
- 617–4000 MHz
- N-type connector (other options available)
- Ultra low-profile
Advanced Information - Antennas and QUATRA 4000
Donor Antennas
Donor Signals
A good donor signal, arriving as cleanly as possible, to the NU, is perhaps the most important consideration in driving the best experiences and outcomes with QUATRA 4000.
With regard to 4G LTE, there are two metrics of particular importance to monitor and optimize:
1. RSRP. Reference Signal Receive Power. It is the power of the LTE Reference Signals spread over the full bandwidth and narrowband. A minimum of -20 dB SINR (of the S-Synch channel) is needed to detect RSRP/RSRQ.
In the context of Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000, the following stratification of quality is recognized:
2. SINR. Signal to Noise Ratio. The SINR is the ratio of the usable (desired) signal over the noise. The following metrics should be used when assessing SINR in the context of Cel-FI QUATRA 4000.
Antenna Selection
There are a few considerations to make when determining the donor antenna.
- How many serving sites? If there are multiple serving sites, and the design goal is to select a specific site, for loading, or any other reason, then directional antenna would be required. If there is a single donor site, and not much RF contention, than an omni-directional antenna could be considered, which would save a little time and energy in the install process, as it would not need to be aimed.
- How much noise? If the site location is very noisy, then a strong directional antenna would be a good choice, as it will filter out some of the unwanted signal.
- How strong is the serving signal? Although Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 has the highest gain of any antenna in its class, if the serving signal is extremely weak, then a high-gain antenna may be required to connect the uplink calls and to get the optimal DL power on the serving side.
Grounding and Lightning Protection
Installers of Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 are encouraged to follow the lightning protection guidelines documented in the National Electrical Code (NEC) and NFPA 780, and/or local codes.
Server Antennas
The QUATRA 4000 Coverage Unit has a single RF output port in the form of an N-type female connector on the top of the unit. A single whip or blade-style antenna can be attached directly, or a distributed antenna system can be deployed.
Antenna Selection
There are two types of indoor antenna to choose from:
Omni-directional dome antennas broadcast and receive signals from all sides. They are designed for central locations with 360º coverage requirement. Like outdoor antennas, their power is measured by their “gain”. They are typically mounted to a ceiling for best results.
Nextivity has standard dome antennas and also offers ‘low-profile’ server antennas that are thin and occupy less visual space.
Panel antennas are directional antennas. Panel antennas allow optimum reception to targeted areas. Like with outdoor antennas, a directional antenna is stronger than an omnidirectional antenna which means the signals it broadcasts are stronger. It can be mounted to either the wall or ceiling. We usually recommend placing it on the ceiling for maximum coverage but in some spaces (like a long narrow hallway) the panel antenna can be placed on the wall.
Nextivity has a few different panel antenna options, with different levels of gain and directivity.
MIMO vs SISO
MIMO (multiple in, multiple out) antennas have multiple feeds and typically more than one coaxial (pigtail) cable or connector. Therefore, a MIMO antenna should only be used with a system that supports MIMO. (Cel-Fi QUATRA 1000 supports MIMO.)
A SISO (single in, single out) antenna has a single coaxial (pigtail) cable feed and/or connector, and works best with SISO systems. Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 is a SISO system.
Mounting (Coverage Unit)
Drop Ceiling
The QUATRA 4000 Coverage Unit is fitted with two ¼”-20 inserts in the center of the bottom side of the unit. This is designed to mate perfectly with standard drop-ceiling infrastructure components. The mounting bracket also has four (4) ¼”-20 threaded inserts which can be similarly used. A variety of mounting methods can be employed through the integration of off-the-shelf accessories.
Note: The Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 Coverage Unit is plenum rated.
For details, please refer to the Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000 Data Sheet
Cel-Fi, IntelliBoost, and Nextivity logo are trademarks of Nextivity, Inc.
Warranty & Limitation of Liability
Nextivity Inc., provides a limited warranty for its products.
For details, please refer to cel-fi.com/warranty.
In no event shall Nextivity, nor its directors, employees, agents, suppliers or End Users, be liable under contract, tort, strict liability, negligence or any other legal or equitable theory with respect to the Products or any other subject matter of this Agreement (i) for any lost profit, cost of procurement of substitute goods or services, or special, indirect, incidental, punitive, or consequential damages of any kind whatsoever or (ii) for any direct damages in excess of (in the aggregate) the fees actually received by Nextivity from End User with respect to the Products actually purchased and paid for.
In the event of regulatory compliance issue, please contact Nextivity Inc. directly.
Contact information is available at cel-fi.com/doc
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| MIMO | Multiple In, Multiple Out |
| SISO | Single In, Single Out |
| SiNR | Single to Noise ratio |
| RSRP | Reference Signal Receive Power |
| RSSI | Received Signal Strength Indicator |
| Donor Antenna | Antenna used to capture the exterior macro cellular network signal, and provide such signal to the system. |
| Server Antenna | Antenna used internally to provide the coverage benefit from Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000. |
| Alarm Error | Description |
|---|---|
| Network Unit Hardware Error | Power cycle the Network Unit (NU) and check for software updates. If problem persists, return NU for service. |
| Insufficient Donor Signal | Relocate Network Unit (NU) where a stronger signal exists, or use an external antenna for the NU. If using a small cell, verify the small cell can process calls and check the connections to the NU. Power cycle the NU. |
| Coverage Unit Hardware Error | Troubleshoot any Network Unit (NU) error first, and check for software updates. Make sure Coverage Unit (CU) cables do not exceed recommended cable length maximums. Note that standard Ethernet Extenders or active LAN switches and routers will not work with CU cabling. Power cycle the CU by detaching and reattaching the LAN cable. Test CU by plugging it into back of NU with short test cable. |
| Donor Signal Too Strong | Move Network Unit (NU), or re-aim NU external antenna. Strong signal source may be from another Operator's device (cell tower, local small cell, or booster). |
| Network Unit is Overheating | The Network Unit (NU) should be upright and the air vents not blocked. Move NU to a cooler area. |
| Coverage Unit is Overheating | Make sure the Coverage Unit (CU) air vents are not blocked, or move the CU to a cooler location. |
| Too Close | One of your Coverage Units (CU) is too close to your Network Unit (NU). Try moving the units farther apart (or move units so more signal blocking structures isolate them from each other). |
| Too Far | One of your Coverage Units (CU) is too far from your Network Unit (NU). Try moving the units closer together. |
| Disabled by Operator/Vendor | Your system has been disabled by the mobile network operator or vendor. Contact your vendor for further assistance. |
| Location Lock | Your system has been moved from its original address. Please move the system back to its original location or register your new address with your wireless provider. |
| Registration Required | Systems are pre-enabled and carrier registration is obligatory. |
| Self-Test Failed | Power cycle the unit and check for software updates. If problem persists, return the unit for service. |
| Small Cell Not Detected | Network Unit (NU) Mode is set to small cell. Verify that small cell is connected and operational, or set NU Mode to Internal or External Antenna if no Small Cell used. |
| Small Cell Detected | Small Cell Detected but Network Unit (NU) is not set to Small Cell. Use the WAVE Portal to set NU Mode to Small Cell. |
| Antenna Configuration Error | Too Many Coverage Units (CU) connected. More than one CU in use for Off-Air configuration. Use the WAVE Portal to set Mode to External Antenna, and NU should be connected to an external antenna. |
| Antenna Positioning Required | Antenna positioning incomplete. Use the WAVE Portal to aim the NU donor antenna. |
| Ethernet Link Error | The ethernet link between NU and CU is behaving unreliably or reporting an error. Ensure the ethernet cable is not damaged and its connectors are securely plugged in on both ends. |
| CU Shutdown from Portal | CU's 1 though 4 has been shut down from the Portal. |