Wilson Electronics’ Sleek cell-phone signal booster amplifies signals to and from North American cell sites. Operating on both the 800-MHz (cellular) and 1900-MHz (PCS) frequency bands, the signal booster (part number 815226) reduces dropped calls, extends signal range, and increases data rates. The complete system kit includes a cradle that adapts to a variety of cell and smartphone shapes, an antenna, and a power adapter (Fig. 3).

The roof-mounted antenna receives the signal from the cell tower and transmits it to the cradle via a cable. After boosting the signal, the Sleek’s built-in antenna sends the signal to the cell phone. The process works in both directions so that the cell phone can send a boosted signal back to the cell tower.

The 815226 has a gain of 20 db (maximum power output of 1.82 W or 32.6 dBm) and a noise figure of 3.0 dB nominal. While it may not be OEM, the kit installs easily and turns a one- to two-bar cellular reception area into four or five bars. The unit, which complies with industry guidelines for cellular devices, is Federal Communication Commission (FCC) Type Accepted and meets Industry Canada requirements.

Rear-seat entertainment (RSE) systems are increasing in quantity and complexity according to iSuppli’s Phil Magney, vice-president, automotive research. Referring to iSuppli’s Automotive Digital Entertainment Portal analysis, Magney sees OEM RSE increasing from 3.1 million units shipped in 2009 to 5.6 million units by 2015. Moreover, it’s no longer a bastion of merely a simple DVD player—the growing list of options include gaming systems, branded audio, HD Radio, USB, MP3 connectivity, mobile TV, increased display sizes, and Wi-Fi.

The entertainment unit is becoming far more than a diversion for children. Still, the smaller backseat passengers are major users of these products. To untether small children, Kidz Gear introduced the IR68KG02 Wireless Car Headphones for Kids.

If the vehicle did not come with wireless headphones for children, or if an aftermarket system was installed, the infrared (IR) wireless headset provides the right size for these smaller users. Compatible with U.S. cars that have single-channel built-in IR DVD/video systems, the headphones offer independent volume control on the ear-cup and automatically power-off when idle. The use of IR technology avoids potential interference with the growing list of RF-based wireless signals.