Installing Network Cell Info Lite
Step 1: Open the Google Play Store
On your Android device, open the Google Play Store.
In the search bar at the top, type "Network Cell Info Lite & Wifi."
Step 2: Download the App
Look for Network Cell Info Lite & Wifi by M2Catalyst, LLC in the search results.
Tap the Install button to download and install the app on your device.
Step 3: Grant Permissions
When you first open the app, it will request permissions to access your location and phone state.
Tap Allow to ensure the app can gather accurate network data.
Using Network Cell Info Lite
Once the app is installed and launched, the main screen will provide you with several key pieces of information about your cellular network. Below is a breakdown of what each section means and how you can use it to monitor your network.
Main Dashboard Overview
Network Type: Displays whether you are connected to 2G, 3G, 4G, LTE, or 5G networks.
Real-time Signal Graphs: These graphs track your signal strength and network performance over time, giving you an ongoing view of changes in connection quality.
Key Features and Metrics
Signal Strength Values:
RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator): Measures the general signal strength. Signals between -50 dBm and -70 dBm are strong, while those lower than -100 dBm are weak.
RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power): This metric measures the power level received from the network. Strong signals range from -80 dBm to -90 dBm; anything at or below -100 dBm indicates weak coverage.
RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality): Measures signal quality. Values from -3 dB to -9 dB indicate good quality, while lower values indicate a degraded signal.
SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio): Measures how clear the signal is compared to background noise. Positive values indicate better quality, while negative values show a poor signal.
Signal Gauge:
The color-coded Signal Gauge on the main dashboard provides a visual representation of your current signal strength.
Green: Strong signal
Yellow: Moderate signal
Red: Weak signal
Map Feature:
Switch to the Map tab to see the location of nearby cell towers in relation to your device. The map provides a geographic overview of where your connection is strongest or weakest.
Raw Data:
The raw data feature provides important, live data such as RSRP, RSRQ, and ASU.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Your Signal
Open Network Cell Info Lite and navigate to the Gauge Dashboard.
Observe the Signal Strength value (RSSI or RSRP) to determine how strong your current cellular signal is.
Ideal signal strength is between -50 dBm and -80 dBm.
Switch to the Map tab to view the locations of nearby cell towers. The app will indicate which tower you’re connected to, as well as signal strength variations as you move around.
Use the Real-time Plot Graphs feature to monitor how your signal strength changes over time. This is useful for troubleshooting network issues and identifying poor coverage areas.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Low Signal Strength: If your signal strength is consistently low (e.g., below -110 dBm), try moving closer to a window or open space. Obstacles like walls or large objects can block cellular signals.
Network Switching: If your phone frequently switches between 4G, 3G, or even 2G, it may be due to poor coverage in your area. The Network Type section in the app will show you what type of connection you currently have.
Slow Data: If your data speeds are slow, check the SNR value. A low signal-to-noise ratio (below 0 dB) could be the cause, indicating interference from other signals or noise.
Conclusion
Network Cell Info Lite provides an easy-to-use interface for monitoring your mobile network's performance. By understanding key values like RSRP, RSSI, and SNR, you can gain insights into your network quality, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and ensure you're getting the best possible signal. We hope this guide has helped you navigate the app and make the most of its features.