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00:00:00 – 00:18:57
The video by Nate from the Nader Tater channel focuses on improving Verizon's 5G home internet performance using external antennas. Key topics include disassembling two types of 5G gateways, the Arcadium and the Ascii, to access antenna ports, and various MIMO antenna setups (2×2, 4×4) for enhanced signal strength and speed. Nate conducts thorough tests with configurations, measuring metrics like latency, download, and upload speeds, demonstrating notable findings such as better overall performance with a 4×4 setup and the impact of antenna placement. Although some configurations show minor improvements, overall results indicate that external antennas can significantly benefit users in areas with weak connectivity, particularly enhancing download speeds and reducing latency. The video emphasizes the importance of proper antenna selection, positioning, and port usage to maximize performance.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, Nate from the Nader Tater channel explores whether external antennas can improve signal strength and speed on Verizon’s 5G home internet, specifically focusing on the C-band mid-band 5G with their cube gateway. He explains the two types of gateways available: one with accessible internal ports (Arcadium) and one without (Ascii). He shows how to differentiate them by checking the SKU on the device’s bottom. Nate demonstrates disassembling the unit to access the antenna ports, noting there are eight cellular ports, which allows for various MIMO antenna setups like 2×2 and 4×4 for improved performance. He mentions his personal tests with different antennas and the extensive combinations possible, providing a discounted link for waveform antennas in the video description.
00:03:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the process of collecting data and insights about a new gateway device, including research from FCC documentation and consultations with Waveform. The speaker tested various antenna configurations, tracking performance metrics like latency, download, and upload speeds to find the best combination. The testing setup involves different types of antennas placed in a third-floor attic due to space constraints and convenience. The speaker shares that the preferred setup improves speed and promises live demonstrations of the results. Additionally, they encourage viewers to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon for notifications on future content.
00:06:00
In this part of the video, the presenter discusses splitting their Wi-Fi between 2.4GHz and 5GHz to achieve better speeds, finding no difference between wireless and Ethernet. They aim to test connection speeds without overusing the U.FL connectors. After noting that speeds can vary daily, they plan to provide detailed metrics and port performance in another video. Currently, they are using both 4×4 and 2×2 antennas, with some ports using stock antennas and others using waveform antennas. Logging into their router, they view signal strengths for 4G and 5G, noting better signal strength with the nationwide 5G but faster speeds with the C-band 5G. They conclude with a speed test showcasing a 20ms ping.
00:09:00
In this part of the video, the presenter discusses internet speed and latency measurements using different tools. Initially, speeds were around 350-360 Mbps, which slowed down to about 310 Mbps. The importance of checking ping or latency for both upload and download is highlighted, with the presenter noting that their Verizon upload speeds are typically poor. While speed test tools like Fast.com show higher speeds than others, a common trend is observed where speeds start high and then decrease. The presenter also compares unloaded and loaded ping times, noting values such as 31 ms unloaded and 103 ms loaded.
The video further explores the effect of different antennas on speed. Removing the 2×2 antenna and reverting to stock antennas showed no significant change in the cell metrics or speeds. The signal shifted from 5G ultra-wideband and then re-established, showing a slightly better signal without substantial improvement in speeds. The presenter concludes that the 2×2 antenna configuration does not significantly impact performance based on their tests.
00:12:00
In this part of the video, the presenter discusses the results of testing their device with different antenna configurations. Initially, there was no drastic improvement when using a 2×2 antenna on top of the 4×4 configuration. When reverting to the stock unit, the signal strength dropped to about -100. The speed test indicated slightly slower upload speeds compared to the 4×4 setup, though download speed showed a minor increase. Further testing with the Waveform site revealed a significant drop in the overall score, from a B to an F, primarily due to slower upload speeds and high ping times. The presenter speculates that the increased processing demand for signal strength might be contributing to higher latency.
00:15:00
In this part of the video, the focus is on improving latency and download speeds through various configurations using external antennas. The presenter highlights that latency can be improved by transitioning from inside to outside setups. They demonstrate switching to a 2×2 antenna setup, noting significant download speed improvements but minor changes in upload speed. Despite worse signal strength metrics compared to stock, the setup likely provides a better signal-to-noise ratio. The presenter emphasizes the importance of selecting the correct ports and antenna polarity to maximize benefits. Through multiple tests, the 4×4 configuration consistently showed better speeds and ping times than stock. Additionally, the external antenna allows placement flexibility that isn’t possible with the gateway alone, which is particularly useful if the optimal placement area lacks power sources or desirable network connectivity infrastructure.
00:18:00
In this part of the video, the speaker explains the benefits of using an external antenna for improving signal reception, especially in areas with weak connectivity. They highlight that while not everyone may need it, for some people, it is essential to enhance signal strength, increase internet speed, and reduce latency. The speaker encourages viewers to leave comments or questions and suggests staying tuned for more videos.