Verizon has introduced a new in home personal cell phone tower that connects to your broadband connection so users can get a full signal within a 5000 square foot area. The unit connects to a broadband connection with a 300 kbps minimum connection to communicate with the closest cell tower if out of reach in either a dead zone or blacked out area.
The unit acts as a cellular base station, also referred to as "femtocell". The Network Extender is a small unit at 7.8" x 2.1" x 5.8" and weighs roughly 1lb – about the same size as a wireless router. The unit doesn"t require any setup to your existing Verizon Wireless phone, or any additional plans, but requires a broadband connection and needs to be placed near a window to collect a GPS signal.
The Network Extender offers 4 channels, 3 of which can be used for active calls, for up to 50 prioritized phone numbers, and 1 channel left open for 911 emergency services. The ability to block neighbours from using the unit is an added in safeguard for the device to prevent unauthorized access within the range.
Customers could be replacing their home phones with the improved range around their home, where previously, only landlines could each. The unit is great for places with basements, hilly areas, or any other locations where cell towers have troubles reaching. The Verizon Wireless Network Extender prices for $249.99.