If an internal and external antenna are positioned too close together, they will receive each other's signal and throw the amplifier into a loop, called oscillation. Wilson amplifiers are built with auto gain, which automatically decreases the amplifier's output upon detection of oscillation.

The 50 dB amplifiers must have at least 40 feet of separation between the inside and outside antennas. The 60 dB amplifiers must have at least 75 feet of separation. Separation is measured as a straight line between the two antennas because signal travels through the air in a straight line. Separation is not measured by the length of cables.