WiFi antennas are designed to give WiFi signals more power, so you can extend the range of your WiFi network and get a stronger signal in places where it might otherwise be weak or non-existent. WiFi antennas come in all shapes and sizes, but here are 8 things you should look for when shopping around to find one that’s right for you.
1) Width
The first thing you should look for when choosing a WiFi antenna is the width of the beam. A wider beam will cover more area, making it ideal for large spaces. However, a wider beam can also be more difficult to focus, so if you’re looking for an antenna to use in a smaller space, you may want to choose one with a narrower beam.
2) Thickness
A thicker antenna will be able to pick up more signals than a thinner one. Additionally, it will be less likely to break and will last longer. Make sure to check the reviews before purchasing an antenna to see what others have said about its durability.
3) Gain
One of the most important things to look for when choosing a WiFi antenna is gain. Gain is a measure of how well the antenna converts input power into radio waves. The higher the gain, the more powerful the signal.
4) Polarization
A good antenna will have linear polarization, which means that the electric field and the magnetic field are perpendicular to each other. This allows the antenna to receive signals from all directions, and not just one plane.
5) Cross polarization isolation
This is one of the most important factors to look for when choosing a WiFi antenna. Cross polarization isolation (CPI) is a measure of how well an antenna can receive signals that are polarized perpendicular to the antenna’s polarization. The higher the CPI, the better the antenna will be able to receive signals from multiple directions.
6) Return loss
A good WiFi antenna will have a low return loss, which means that very little of the signal is reflected back into the transmitter. A high return loss is an indication of a poor match between the antenna and the transmitter, and can result in decreased range and increased interference.
7) Operating temperature range
The operating temperature range is one of the most important things to look for when choosing a WiFi antenna. After all, you don’t want your antenna to overheat and stop working in the middle of a hot summer day. Here are some other things to keep in mind:
- Make sure the antenna can withstand the environment it will be used in.
- If you’re using the antenna outdoors, make sure it can withstand UV rays, rain, snow, and wind.
- If you’re using the antenna indoors, make sure it won’t be affected by dust or temperature changes.
- The antenna should have a low power consumption so it doesn’t drain your battery too quickly.
8) Proper mounting technique
In order to get the most out of your WiFi antenna, it is important to make sure that it is mounted properly. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- The antenna should be mounted as high up as possible.
- Make sure that there are no obstacles between the antenna and the router.
- Keep the antenna away from metal objects.
- Position the antenna vertically, if possible.
- If you are using an outdoor antenna, make sure that it is weatherproof.
- Make sure that the cable connecting the antenna to the router is of good quality.
- Last but not least, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when mounting your antenna.
Finally, remember…
When choosing a WiFi antenna, there are several factors you need to consider. Range, price, and portability are all important, but ultimately it depends on your specific needs. If you need a long range antenna, make sure to get one with an amplifier.
If you’re on a budget, look for an antenna with good reviews that’s affordable. And if you need an antenna you can take with you on the go, make sure it’s lightweight and easy to transport. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to choose the right antenna, but following the guidelines highlighted above should help you narrow down your search and find the perfect one for your needs.