VoLTE is a technology that allows voice calls to be carried over 4G LTE networks, providing higher quality audio and faster connections than traditional voice calls. However, despite the benefits of VoLTE, many users face problems with call quality, especially in weak signal conditions. In this article, we will look at the features of this technology, as well as how Vodafone, Tesco, and Giffgaff signal booster improve the quality of voice calls.
What Is VoLTE?
VoLTE is a technology for making calls in 4G networks. This formulation may seem strange because modern smartphones already operate in 4G mode. However, not all users notice that when they make or receive a call while within range of a 4G network, their devices automatically switch to 3G or 2G mode.
The fact is that initially, mobile operators did not introduce VoLTE technology, using 4G connections only for broadband Internet access. To provide users with the ability to make calls from their devices in 4G networks, CSFB (Circuit-switched fallback) technology was introduced. It automatically switched the phone to the previous generation standard when there was an incoming or outgoing call.
The technology of returning to 3G or 2G during a call has always been considered as a temporary and necessary measure, and now VoLTE is taking its place.
How Does VoLTE Work?
In 2G/3G networks, to organize voice calls, a channel connection is established between the phone and the base station, which is maintained during the entire conversation.This type of data exchange is reliable, but not the most rational: to constantly maintain the channel, too much extra traffic is consumed, which in a different situation could be allocated to other users or used for other needs. The voice channel has a constant capacity, does not scale with load, and has many limitations.
When developing the LTE standard, it was decided to completely switch to packet data transmission, abandoning circuit-switched voice services. As a result, in 4G networks, all data is transmitted in the form of numerous small packets into which digital information is packaged.
From a technical point of view, VoLTE is packet voice transmission in LTE networks. In other words, VoLTE voice calls are transmitted exactly the same as all other data on the Internet, except VoLTE uses the mobile network of the mobile operator.
Benefits of VoLTE
VoLTE technology has many advantages, thanks to which users can enjoy communication with their friends and family:
- VoLTE allows you to simultaneously talk on the phone and use 4G mobile Internet. Today, during a voice call, the phone switches to 3G mode, which significantly reduces the maximum speed of the Internet connection. With VoLTE, you can chat and download large files, watch high-quality videos, or browse the web at top speeds at the same time.
- VoLTE significantly reduces the time required to establish a connection. The smartphone no longer needs to switch between modes: you can reach your interlocutor in literally 2-4 seconds.
- Thanks to packet data transmission, VoLTE can provide much higher quality audio. Users can hear each other in HD quality. But it should be borne in mind that for high-quality sound, both interlocutors must be in VoLTE mode.
How to Strengthen VoLTE?
As with other types of mobile communications, VoLTE may not work well VoLTE may not work for a number of reasons. What are the main reasons for a bad mobile internet signal?
- Insufficient signal strength at a distance.
If the operator’s base station is located at a great distance from you, the 4G signal and, accordingly, VoLTE may simply not reach your devices. In this case, mobile devices switch to previous generations of 3G (UMTS) or 2G (EDGE), with much lower speeds.
- Signal attenuation due to walls and ceilings.
In the same way, the radio signal can be suppressed by thick walls, ceilings, partitions, and even double-glazed windows.In this situation, mobile communications may work well outdoors or near a window, but slow down or disappear completely further into the room. This problem is especially relevant in underground rooms and basement floors of buildings.
- Unfavorable terrain.
Natural obstacles such as mountains and hills can weaken the signal to the point of rendering it ineffective. Often there is no connection indoors and it appears only on the roof of a house or nearby hills.
- Operator equipment overload or malfunction.
A separate group of problems are breakdowns and malfunctions on the operator’s side. For example, Internet speed may decrease if a large number of subscribers are using it at the same time, and the base station is simply not designed for such loads. Short-term network disruptions due to accidents are also possible.
However, in most cases, VoLTE can be enhanced. Since VoLTE is an integral part of 4G networks, to strengthen this technology it is enough to improve the quality of the 4G signal. Equipment for amplifying VoLTE is no different from equipment for amplifying 4G mobile Internet on smartphones.
Systems with a repeater increase the signal strength indoors, taking the operator’s signal from the street as a basis. In such a system, the outdoor antenna receives the original signal, the repeater increases its power, and the indoor antenna distributes the amplified signal. The components are connected to each other using a radio frequency cable. Users do not need to change SIM cards or devices, because the repeater creates a stable reception area throughout the room.
Benefits of using Vodafone, EE, and Giffgaff signal amplifiers to strengthen your mobile signal:
- Area of reliable 4G/LTE reception indoors. The coverage area is determined by the power of the equipment.
- No need to change the operator or SIM card, the signal is strengthened for all mobile devices within the range of the repeater.
- Strengthening the Internet and voice communications, including VoLTE, can be done with one set of equipment.
Final Thoughts
Mobile boosters can significantly boost the LTE signal, resulting in improved quality of VoLTE voice calls. This is especially important in environments where the network signal is weakened due to distance from the base station or due to obstacles such as thick building walls.It is recommended to entrust the selection and installation of a mobile booster to professionals; this guarantees the correct installation and operation of the equipment.UCtel is a company with many years of experience in improving the signal of Giffgaff, Tesco, Vodafone, or other popular UK operators with boosters in apartments, houses, schools, hospitals, and other premises where there is a poor mobile signal.
