Choosing the right antenna can be a daunting task because of the confusing antenna designs as well as their unique applications. Finding the right antenna is important, whether you want an enhanced WiFi signal, clearer TV reception, or better cellular connection. It ensures uninterrupted signals and a smooth wireless connection. Today, we will discuss how to choose the right antenna. Let’s get into it!
Antenna Key Concepts to Understand
Understanding the key concepts of the antenna will help you find the right one according to your specific requirements. Here are the basic key concepts:
Gain
The gain describes how well the antenna converts radio waves arriving from a specified direction into electrical power. It tells about the antenna’s ability to focus radiated power in a particular direction. Gain is measured in decibels related to isotropic (dBi). A higher gain value refers to stronger signals within the lower coverage.
Directionality
Directionality refers to the direction in which the antenna sends and receives its signal. There are two types of antennas on the basis of directionality, like omnidirectional and directional.
The omnidirectional antenna transmits and receives signals in a 360-degree horizontal pattern. They are of various types, including whip antennas, dipole antennas, monopole antennas, dome antennas, and more. The directional antenna sends and receives signals in a specific direction, facilitating more focused signals. For example, Yagi Uda antennas, parabolic antennas, sector antennas, and others.
Polarization
This refers to the orientation of the electric field of the radio wave. Vertical polarisation is common for cellular devices. But it is crucial that both the transmitting and receiving antennas have matching polarization for optimal performance.
Frequency Bands
The frequency band is the range of frequencies over which the antenna operates. Several factors influence the bandwidth. This includes antenna design and antenna type. For instance, the helical antenna offers a wide bandwidth, and the horn antenna provides a narrow bandwidth.
How to Choose the Right Antenna?
If you are looking for the right antenna for your unique set of requirements, you need to be considerate about several factors:
Application
Determine the purpose of the antenna. For instance, for a fixed location with a weak signal or a single tower, a highly directional antenna is needed. And for an urban or mobile application, an omnidirectional antenna is required. Always ensure that the antenna’s impedance matches your system.
Also, consider whether the antenna is needed for an outdoor or indoor application. The outdoor antenna and the indoor antenna are built very differently to fulfill distinct purposes. Usually, outdoor antennas are built to withstand outdoor elements like sun, rain, and snow, and the indoor antennas are smaller and less conspicuous.
Frequency Bands
Ensure that the antenna supports the frequency band that is used by your cellular carrier and the services that you need. If you want higher frequencies, then you will need the smaller antennas, and if you want lower frequencies, then the larger antennas will be needed. For example, antennas are categorised based on their frequencies into three types: HF antenna (3-30 MHz), VHF antenna (30-300 MHz), and UHF antenna (300 MHz-3 GHz). So, make your choice according to your needs.
Gain (dBi)
Consider the gain of the antenna. A higher-gain antenna is better for long-distance communication, but it has a narrower beamwidth, making it best suited for flat open areas. The lower-gain antennas are suitable for the short-range areas where a more rounded pattern is needed. Don’t always go for the higher-gain antenna. Make your choice on the basis of your requirements. For example, for a vehicle, a 6 dBi omni antenna would be better than a 12 dBi yagi antenna.
Installation and Mounting
Be considerate about the installation and mounting of your antenna. For example, the vehicle antennas need sturdy mounting that can withstand wind and vibration. Outdoor antennas need to be mounted as high as possible and should be clear of obstructions.
For indoor antennas, avoid it to place them near large metal objects or sources of RF interference, and in outdoor antennas, install with proper grounding to protect against lightning strikes and electrical surges.
Durability and Power Handling
Select the antenna on the basis of its durability and power resistance. See if the antenna can handle the transmitter’s power outlet and is durable enough to withstand environmental stress. For example, for the marine and coastal setting, select the antenna that is made with stainless steel and fiberglass to prevent rust and early degradation.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right antenna is a very crucial task if you want to ensure robust wireless connectivity and uninterrupted signals. The above-mentioned factors can make the process easy for you. There are many antennas available in the market, so always make your choice on the basis of your unique requirements. If you are still unsure about making the decision, then it is preferred to contact an antenna manufacturer near you.
