We often do initial reviews of hardware here on the site. It’s fun, it’s exciting, and, as gadget lovers, we enjoy bringing to all of you our thoughts on the newest technology. At the same time, what really matters about a product aren’t just the initial impressions or even the first review, but rather how things work in the long run and whether an item we really like during a review is something we still use a number of months later. Along those lines I thought we might go back and take a second look at item that both Wayne and I reviewed a few months back. That item — the CellRanger USB cell reception booster.
The website for the CellRanger states —
Wherever life takes you… Maximize your wireless signal. The CellRanger line (edit) of personal space wireless signal enhancing products are designed to easily and affordably help you stay in touch.
In his review Wayne had this to say —
As an in-car booster I found that this is a very compact and useful signal booster that resulted in at least two to three bars of increased signal to my iPhone 3G.
In my second look I had this to say —
While it isn’t always this good, especially when the phone isn’t right next to it, it DOES boost the signal significantly. Since I started using it I have not lost a call while working in my home study once! The CellRanger is a keeper. In fact, I may just have to go buy a second one so my cell will get a signal at night.
So why this post? Here’s why —
Last week I sold my iPhone 3G. I figured it was best to sell it now before the new hardware comes out so that I might get top resale value for it. (It soon eBay incredibly quickly and for decent price.) As a result I am currently using a first-generation iPhone which, as all of you know, is more than a bit “reception challenge”.
I expected the reception to be bad but not as bad as I found it this morning. Sitting at my desk doing some writing I was getting zero bars.
Zero, as in “no connectivity”.
Zero, as in “I won’t get a call if it comes in”
Zero, as in “Did I just make a huge mistake selling my iPhone 3G? Is this what it’s going to be for the next month and a half until the new hardware comes out?”
It was only then I discovered the source of the zero signal — the power connection for the CellRanger booster that sits under my desk had become loose when I moved some things around earlier and the device wasn’t getting any juice. No power meant no boost and no boost meant zero signal.
Once I plugged in the booster my iPhone immediately went from this
To this
Now that is one heck of an endorsement for product and it’s why, long after the review was posted, I continue to use, and rely upon, this superb device.
The CellRanger is available in a Stix version for use in autos and a Port version for use with a powered USB. Both cost $149.99 and are available HERE.