zBoost
®
Xtreme REACH ZB560SL Manual
zBoost
®
Xtreme REACH ZB560SL Manual
4
5
Power Requirements
The Base Unit can be plugged into a standard 2-prong 110 VAC receptacle using the included
power supply. The power supply consumes less than 10W (less than 0.2A).
Important Reminders:
An exterior mounting mast has not been provided. Using at least 1.5” PVC pipe or a J-pole
(available from zBoost, part YX014) is suggested should one be needed.
FIRST: Placement of the External Antenna
Choosing the best location for the External Antenna provides the best performance and the largest
area of improved signal. Choose a location for the External Antenna using your cell phone to
determine the area of strongest signal - typically found outside, above the roo
fl
ine or in an attic. The
antenna must also remain at least 3 feet from any metal objects such as pipes, metal siding, A/C
unit etc. and at least 15 vertical feet above the Indoor Antenna.
The YX699 Signal Meter (available separately) provides signal strength information. It can be used
with its supplied whip antenna to
fi
nd the best location for antenna mounting with the strongest
received signal. It can also be connected to the directional antennas to aim the antennas for
maximum received signal. Contact zBoost to obtain a YX699 Signal Meter.
Mounting of Antenna
1.
When you have determined the location of the strongest signal, install the antenna to a
mast (not provided). Outdoor J-pole Antenna Mounting Bracket, YX014 is available at
www.zBoost.com. Loosely connect the antenna to the mast to allow the antenna to be
reoriented for strongest signal. Take special care in aiming the External Antenna in the
direction of best signal. If you are unsure of the nearest tower location of your wireless
provider, see”Antenna Aiming” on page 7 for detailed instructions.
2.
After installing the External Antenna to a mast or pole, connect RG-6 coax cable to the
External Antenna and run to the Base Unit.
Coax Cable
Exterior Wall
Before installing, please note the following important factors in determining your zBoost
performance:
• At least 15 vertical feet is needed between the External Antenna (receives the outside signal)
and the Indoor Antenna (rebroadcasts the signal indoors). Separation less than 15 vertical
feet will result in decreased performance. See illustration below.
• Keep the External Antenna at least 3 feet above any metal.
See “Installing Your zBoost Signal Booster” on page 5, for additional information.
Cable Requirements
RG-6 cable is used to connect the External Antenna and the Base Unit. Should you need additional
cable length, 15 foot extensions (Part #:
YX030-15w
) are available at www.zBoost.com.
The total cable length should not exceed 65 feet unless you also purchase an upgraded External
Antenna or upgrade the cable to RG-11. (see page v). The recommended maximum length
for RG-11 is 100 ft. A longer cable is helpful only if it allows you to place the External Antenna in
a location where you measure stronger signal. It is highly recommended that you refrain from
securing your cable, drilling any holes, etc. until you complete and test the installation of the
system.
Caution: Before drilling any holes into a wall to run your cable, make sure you know where existing
electrical wiring is located. Drilling into live electrical wiring could cause and electrical shock and
sever the wire.
Grounding the Directional External Antennas
If you decide to place the External Antenna outdoors, it must be properly grounded. (See page
v for a recommended grounding kit).
The set up must be in accordance with Article 810 of the
National Electric Code (NEC). A listed antenna discharge
unit must be provided for the lead-in coaxial cable per NEC
article 8.10.20 or the shield of the coaxial cable must be
permanently and effectively grounded in accordance with
NEC article 8.10.21. Please consult a professional installer
or electrician for more information.
Securing Cable with a Drip Loop
When you install the Directional External Antennas, create
a drip loop with the coaxial cable at the point where the
cable enters the home through an outside wall. This can be
done by twisting and securing the cable into a loop (no less
than 4” across) near the entry point. This will help prevent
moisture from gathering at entry point and leaking into the
home.
Minimal Performance
Best Performance (Recommended)
15 ft. of
Vertical
Separation
Installing Your zBoost Signal Booster
Outdoor External Antenna
