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Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options

mirekbrz 8004 17
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What directional antenna should I choose for a T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE router when the signal is weak and the best BTS depends on the location?

Use a directional 800–900 MHz Yagi antenna; the recommended options were 2xATK-20 or 2xATK-10/800-980, with selection done after outdoor testing on the B525 with LTE800 enabled [#16941166] The forum also pointed to a 20-element GSM/LTE Yagi for 850–960 MHz with 10 m cable and ready SMA connector, but it needs solid mounting and ideally two units, one vertical and one horizontal [#16941413][#16948103] In practice, the ATK-10 antennas were mounted and gave slightly better speed than the weak Wi‑Fi link, so the antenna choice was confirmed as working [#16950927] Low SINR was attributed to BTS load rather than a bad antenna, so changing the pointing direction and trying a less loaded BTS was suggested [#16950968][#16951055] The final direction was adjusted toward Szymbark because the router would not lock to Krzeszna, and that gave better signal quality and acceptable download speed [#16953030]
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  • #1 16940998
    mirekbrz
    Level 9  
    Posts: 11
    Rate: 7
    Welcome.
    I know that the topic is rolled etc., but all in all depending on BTS different solutions. My colleague Matek451 I see probably has the greatest knowledge and I count a bit on his opinion. I ordered an LTE router with T-mobile wanting to switch from a weak Wi-Fi local provider to (I hope) faster LTE internet. It is true that the signal and me weak but I hope that the exposure of the antenna on the roof will give satisfactory parameters, hence my question about the best choice. The cost of PLN 200 is very acceptable. maybe something like this:
    https://yagi.pl/zestaw-lte-ultra-advanced-800...100-2600-mhz-2x10m-zakonczony-zlaczem-2x-smam

    Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options

    After entering the attic, the parameters improve slightly, but there is no madness.
    Thanks for the suggestions.
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  • #2 16941166
    matek451
    Level 43  
    Posts: 31052
    Help: 4314
    Rate: 5708
    Is this test at home or outside? Connection with BTS Borucino 3 to 2G with GSM900, poor signal parameters. Location difficult, on BTS Borucino LTE800 T-Mobile, same in Krzeszna. A powerful 800MHz antenna is needed, i.e. 2xATK-20 or 2xATK-10 / 800-980. Selection after testing on the B525 outside after extending the LTE800 band on it.
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  • #4 16941178
    mirekbrz
    Level 9  
    Posts: 11
    Rate: 7
    Test made at home ... in the weakest place. I have the impression that now that there are no leaves, it is better than in summer. I am planning a mast maybe 1 m above roof level. At home, lte will definitely not catch (I never caught). Today, for a moment, I dumped the phone through a roof hatch. How much will I get on 3G? You know now I have 3MB / 1MB Wi-Fi so if it is better then I will be happy :) . In the attic I had a Speed test with 1.5 MB DL / 3MB UL as I caught a better signal. The fact that I can't check LTE yet because I have a Mi5S Plus phone without a village LTE 800 MHz

    Added after 13 [minutes]:

    One more question, will the panel or directional antenna be better in my case?
  • #5 16941299
    matek451
    Level 43  
    Posts: 31052
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    Rate: 5708
    After all, you already got the antenna suggestions, the YAGI-UDA directional antennas work in the 800-900MHz band. In addition to LTE800, you'll benefit from 3G on UMTS900 NetWorks from one of these BTSs. It is used by Orange customers, T-Mobile, by design it is free and you are overloaded with DL
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  • #7 16941378
    matek451
    Level 43  
    Posts: 31052
    Help: 4314
    Rate: 5708
    This is normal with such signal parameters on LTE800 from Borucin. For comparison, you can do a test near the BTS in your direction, with the correct signal parameters.
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  • #8 16941397
    mirekbrz
    Level 9  
    Posts: 11
    Rate: 7
    I wonder what better to direct this directional antenna. Krzeszna closer. From those you gave, the 20 elements will probably be better in my case. I would like to order them to arrive at the same time as the router (which I will probably have on Wednesday). I will see the terrain on the geoportal soon.
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  • #9 16941413
    matek451
    Level 43  
    Posts: 31052
    Help: 4314
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    Distance is not everything, obstacles, topography and the important thing is the configuration of sectors on the base station. http://www.dipol.com.pl/antena_gsm_20-element...-850-960_mhz_10_m_przewodu_wtyk_sma_A7027.htm only this piece of antenna, 170cm, requires good mounting and even more two pieces, one in vertical polarization, the other in horizontal.
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  • #10 16941438
    mirekbrz
    Level 9  
    Posts: 11
    Rate: 7
    Fastening would be to the chimney, the top of the chimney is flush with the roof, I would probably go a meter higher. I checked the Altitude above sea level between me and the station in Borucin. The base of the station is at an altitude of 203 meters above sea level, the fall of the area goes towards me. The base of my house is 199 m. The antenna would probably be about 9 m higher or 208 meters above sea level. The transmitter probably a height of about 40 m. In front of me a hill, which probably covers me and some forests. The highest hill between me and the BTS in Borucin is about 205 meters above sea level and there are trees in some places (but not in these mountains)

    I have more obstacles to BTS Krzeszno. The height of the base is the same as my house, i.e. 199 m. Above sea level, between us a hill which is 230 m above sea level on the line of several houses in the immediate vicinity. Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options

    Maybe this ATK 10 is enough ... the 1.7 m long at ATK 20 a bit much for a bit more profit.

    Added after 14 [hours] 31 [minutes]:

    Today, another tests, I went a little higher on the roof and took the measurement (on the tablet):
    Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options :
    Connected to Borucino so it's certain that I will direct the antenna to this transmitter, now the question is whether ATK 10 will be enough.

    Added after 5 [hours] 58 [minutes]:

    You do not know if the antennas on the dipole have cables already earned or you have to earn yourself, because I do not have a SMA crimper.

    Added after 1 [hours] 9 [minutes]:

    Evening tests:
    Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options
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  • #11 16948103
    makosuu
    Network and Internet specialist
    Posts: 2984
    Help: 369
    Rate: 369
    mirekbrz wrote:
    Added after 5 [hours] 58 [minutes]:

    You do not know if the antennas on the dipole have cables already earned or you have to earn yourself, because I do not have a SMA crimper.

    You are already buying with a ready connector for the router.
  • #12 16950927
    mirekbrz
    Level 9  
    Posts: 11
    Rate: 7
    Today came the router, mounted atk 10 antennas yesterday, the results are as follows:
    Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options
    The speed jumps a little, although it's better than I have now via WiFi. Unfortunately, the SINR factor can jump to -2, so it's not good. Maybe I will turn the antenna a bit, but if it is clear, let me know where I am directing.
    Attachments:
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  • #13 16950968
    makosuu
    Network and Internet specialist
    Posts: 2984
    Help: 369
    Rate: 369
    Low SINR is the fault of the BTS load as seen by the speeds. The antenna is working properly.
  • #15 16953030
    mirekbrz
    Level 9  
    Posts: 11
    Rate: 7
    Today I changed the antenna direction. Unfortunately, he doesn't log in to Krzeszna. He logs me in to Szymbark straight away despite setting the direction for Krzeszno. So I changed the antenna even more and now I have the direction to Szymbark. The results are: Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options Optimal Antenna Selection for T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE Router: BTS Dependent Options

    Download is not bad at peak times, upload smaller than at Borucino. However, I care more about DL. I will see in the evening how the University of Lodz will be shaped. Better signal quality at Szymbark. I leave it for now.
  • #17 16953194
    mirekbrz
    Level 9  
    Posts: 11
    Rate: 7
    Yes .. a professional, it's a pity that I have 0 points and you have almost 33000 :) . Thank you all for your help and assistance in choosing antennas (confirmation to buy specific models).
  • #18 16953222
    matek451
    Level 43  
    Posts: 31052
    Help: 4314
    Rate: 5708
    Everything is in front of you and you have managed your problem perfectly. Cooperation on the other hand is also important.
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Topic summary

✨ The discussion revolves around optimizing antenna selection for a T-Mobile Huawei B525s-23 LTE router, focusing on the impact of different Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) on signal quality. Users share experiences with various antennas, particularly YAGI-UDA directional antennas, which operate in the 800-900 MHz band, suitable for LTE800 and UMTS900 networks. The importance of antenna positioning, height, and environmental factors such as obstacles and topography is emphasized. Users report on their testing results, including speed tests and signal parameters, while discussing the need for proper antenna direction to connect to less loaded BTSs for improved performance.
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FAQ

TL;DR: For weak T‑Mobile LTE800, use cross‑polarized Yagi‑Uda antennas; the ATK‑20 is 170 cm long and, as the expert notes, “Distance is not everything.” [Elektroda, matek451, post #16941413] Why it matters: Picking and aiming the right antenna can turn unusable indoor LTE into stable broadband on a Huawei B525s‑23.

Quick Facts

What antenna works best for weak T‑Mobile LTE on a Huawei B525s‑23?

Use two high‑gain Yagi‑Uda antennas for LTE800: either 2× ATK‑20 or 2× ATK‑10. Confirm by testing LTE800 outdoors with the B525 before buying. This combo maximizes link budget on long or obstructed paths and plays well with the router’s MIMO. "A powerful 800 MHz antenna is needed." [Elektroda, matek451, post #16941166]

ATK‑10 vs ATK‑20 — which should I choose?

Pick ATK‑20 for very weak signals or heavy foliage; choose ATK‑10 when signals are marginal but usable. Start with outdoor LTE800 tests and upgrade if SINR and RSRP remain poor. The ATK‑20’s extra elements boost gain, but its size demands sturdier mounting and cross‑polar alignment. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16941166]

Are panel antennas good here, or should I go directional?

Choose directional Yagi‑Uda antennas. They concentrate energy toward the LTE800 sector and also help with UMTS900 (3G) as a fallback. Panels are easier to mount but provide less gain and selectivity. Directional gain improves both download and uplink stability on distant or obstructed cells. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16941299]

How should I aim when multiple BTS sites exist (Borucino, Krzeszna, Szymbark)?

Do not chase distance alone. Consider obstacles, terrain, and the sector orientation on each base station. Start with line‑of‑sight analysis, then fine‑tune on the roof while watching SINR and RSRP. Secure the 170 cm array well and maintain cross‑polarization during adjustments. "Distance is not everything." [Elektroda, matek451, post #16941413]

Why is my SINR low even after adding an antenna?

Congestion can dominate. Low SINR and swinging speeds often indicate a heavily loaded BTS, not misalignment. If speeds drop at peak hours, try re‑aiming to a less loaded site or testing off‑peak. Antennas can’t fix scheduler contention on the cell. [Elektroda, makosuu, post #16950968]

How do I force LTE‑only and test bands on the B525?

Install Huawei Manager on Android, connect to the router, and set the network mode to LTE‑only. Then read cell IDs and signal stats while moving the antenna. This isolates LTE800 behavior and avoids 2G/3G fallback during alignment. [Elektroda, makosuu, post #16941174]

Can my router latch to a different BTS than the one I’m pointing at?

Yes. Terrain and sector patterns can cause the router to camp on another site. One user aimed for Krzeszna but consistently attached to Szymbark instead. If that happens, realign for the actually attached cell and retest throughput. [Elektroda, mirekbrz, post #16953030]

Do Dipol/Yagi antenna kits come with SMA connectors ready to use?

Yes. You can buy them with premade cables and SMA connectors that plug into the B525 directly. No crimp tool required. Confirm length needs before ordering to minimize loss and avoid unnecessary joins on the run. [Elektroda, makosuu, post #16948103]

Any mounting tips for long Yagi arrays like the ATK‑20?

The ATK‑20 is about 170 cm long and needs a rigid, weather‑proof mount. Use two antennas: one vertical, one horizontal. Secure to a sturdy mast or chimney bracket, and keep spacing consistent to preserve MIMO performance during wind. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16941413]

Is 3G on UMTS900 still useful as a backup?

Yes. Yagi antennas tuned for 800–900 MHz also aid UMTS900. It can provide connectivity if LTE800 falters. However, download can be overloaded on shared networks, so treat it as a fallback rather than a primary link. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16941299]

What real‑world results did users see after installing ATK‑10 with a B525?

After installing 2× ATK‑10 and the B525, speeds improved over local Wi‑Fi. However, SINR sometimes dropped to −2 dB at peak hours, indicating congestion. Re‑aiming and testing different cells helped optimize download performance. [Elektroda, mirekbrz, post #16950927]

How do I quickly align the antennas for best LTE800 performance?

  1. In Huawei Manager, set B525 to LTE‑only and open live signal stats.
  2. On the roof, rotate in small steps, pausing to log SINR/RSRP after each move.
  3. Lock the best direction, tighten hardware, and verify speed at peak and off‑peak times. [Elektroda, makosuu, post #16941174]

What if Borucino is slow—should I try another site?

Yes. If Borucino shows low SINR and poor speeds, pivot the array toward Krzeszna or Szymbark and retest. A less loaded sector can outperform a closer but congested one. Keep cross‑pol orientation while sweeping alternatives. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16951055]

Will raising the mast above the roof help?

Yes. Elevating the array above nearby obstructions can improve signal quality, especially with forests or hills. Maintain structural safety, and remember sector configuration still governs which BTS you attach to under marginal conditions. [Elektroda, matek451, post #16941413]

Can I expect better speeds in winter when leaves are gone?

Yes, leaf‑off seasons can slightly improve reception on marginal links. One user reported better attic reception in winter, but final performance still depended on BTS load and alignment. Seasonal gains won’t fix a saturated cell. [Elektroda, mirekbrz, post #16941178]
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