Things to Consider Before Buying a Wireless Antenna

How do you choose the best wireless antenna for you? You've been researching it and have landed on this page. Thankfully, here, we are going to provide the right solution to you. In this guide, we’ll discuss the most important key factors that you must be aware of in order to choose the best wireless antenna for you. So let’s get started!

7 Factors to Consider When Buying a Wireless Antenna

If you go to the market to purchase a smart antenna for yourself, you may get confused because of the countless options available out there. And eventually, a lack of understanding can lead you to choose the wrong equipment. Therefore, many important factors must be discussed before choosing any wireless solution for you. Here, we have covered the best 7 factors to consider when buying a wireless device:

1) Know The Basics

Before selecting a wireless solution, you must have some basic knowledge of them. Basically, there are two types of antennas: omnidirectional antennas and directional antennas. An omnidirectional antenna is used to send and receive signals from every direction. Such types of wireless solutions are useful for home WiFi, TV and radio broadcasting, and other uses. Common types of omnidirectional antennas are Rubber ducky antenna, Whip antenna, and others.

On the other hand, directional antennas are used when you need to send and receive signals from a specific direction. Examples of directional antennas are Parabolic dish antenna, Horn antenna, Phased array antenna, and others. These devices are useful for long-distance communication, satellite missions, radio astronomy, military applications, electric warfare, and other purposes.

2) Which Frequency Range?

There is a huge collection of antennas that are used to connect with a particular range of frequencies. You need to pick the frequency range that you are looking for in your equipment. Ask yourself this question, what frequency range you want to cover with your antenna. That will help you to choose the more accurate equipment for you. These are the types of antenna based on their frequency range:

1: Low Frequency (LF) Antennas

Frequency Range: 30-300 kHz                                

Example: Loop Antenna, Long Wire Antenna, etc.

2: Medium Frequency (MF) Antennas

Frequency Range: 300 kHz - 3 MHz                               

Example: Marconi Antenna, Whip Antenna, etc.

3: High Frequency (HF) Antennas

Frequency Range: 3-30 MHz                                 

Example: Dipole Antenna, Yagi Uda Antenna, etc.

4: Very High Frequency (VHF) Antennas

Frequency Range: 30-300 MHz                               

Example: Rabbit Ears, J-Pole Antenna, etc.

5: Ultra High Frequency (UHF) Antennas

Frequency Range: 300 MHz - 3 GHz                                

Example: Panel Antenna, Log Periodic Dipole Antenna (LPDA), etc.

6: Super High Frequency (SHF) Antennas

Frequency Range: 3-30 GHz                                

Example: Horn Antenna, Parabolic Dish Antenna, etc.

7: Extremely High Frequency (EHF) Antennas

Frequency Range: 30-300 GHz                                

Example: Waveguide Antenna, Phased Array Antenna, etc.

8: Terahertz Frequency (THz) Antennas

Frequency Range: 300 GHz - 3 THz                               

Example: Photoconductive Antenna, Slot Antenna, etc.

3) Connector Types

In smart antennas, connectors play a crucial role in making seamless connections between the antenna and other components of a communication system. You will find two main types of connectors designed with wireless antennas: N-type and U-type. N-type connectors are useful to communicate with high-frequency signals up to 18 GHz. These types of connectors offer exceptional performance, uninterruptible signal loss, and resistance against bad weather conditions. That makes them a perfect choice for integrating into outdoor applications.

On the other hand, U-type connectors are suitable for lower frequencies, such as 300 MHz. These connectors are larger in size and can be easily connected. However, these connectors have higher signal loss at higher frequencies. So overall, it is up to you to decide which type of connector you want in your antenna. Think and make the right decision that suits your requirements.

4) Size and Shape

Antennas hold a huge diversity in their size and shape. You can see small, medium, large, and extra-large antennas in different shapes. Patch antennas that come in shapes like elliptical, triangular, and ring-shaped. If you want coverage in all directions, elliptical patches are better, while triangular patches work well for a small area. Ring-shaped antennas have circle polarization and can be used in radar and satellite systems. Size of your antenna has an impact on its performance. And large antennas can be more difficult to install. So choose an antenna that fits your style.

5) Cable Length

The length of the cable antenna plays a crucial role in deciding signal quality and strength. Longer cables can lead to poor signal connections, which will have an impact on your antenna's overall performance. On the other hand, shorter cables minimize loss but limit placement options. So you need to strike a balance in your cable length that will ensure efficient signal transmission and enhance your system's overall effectiveness.

 The length of the coaxial line between your wireless antenna and receiver should be roughly 20% longer than your distance from any barriers, such as mountains or buildings. If your receiver is on top of your roof, for example, try to find a solution that can send a signal up to 100 feet away. A good rule of thumb is that each dB of signal loss represents an extra 20% loss in range.

6) Durability

The durability of an antenna matters a lot because it will help your wireless solution to withstand tough weather conditions. Your device should be durable so that it can resist vibration, high temperatures, pressure, and other potential hazards. If you want to purchase equipment for your roof, then you’ll want something that will hold up to tough conditions and weather. If it is for a car, you may only have one chance at fitting it properly; choose your material wisely. Look for a high gain smart antenna that is UV-resistant or is made of metal rather than plastic.

7) Quality and Manufacturer’s Reputation

Last but not least, consider the reputation of your antenna provider. If you have some doubt in the reliability of the company. You can get in touch with your friends and family to take their advice. In case, if they are not able to help, you can do some research to find out which antenna distributor is the best in your area. You may come across a number of antenna sellers, but their experience, and testimonial will help you to choose the most accurate option from many. You can directly call them and clear your doubt or concern related to your wireless antenna. Overall, choose the antenna supplier that sells reliable, high performance and durable antennas for your needs.

Final word

So we discussed the seven most important factors to consider when selecting the best wireless antenna. You understand their types, their frequency range, and so on are critical to getting the right solution for you. You will be able to select the right antenna that meets your specific needs by considering the above-mentioned points. Remember to always choose an antenna that is high-performing, reliable, and durable. Therefore, make a wise decision for effective wireless communication.