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Version: 2.0 (Legacy)

Antennas

Antenna selection is crucial for optimal OpenHD performance and range.

Antenna Types​

Omnidirectional Antennas​

  • Duck Antennas: Standard rubber duck antennas for general use
  • Dipole Antennas: Simple wire antennas for basic setups
  • Cloverleaf/Skew-Planar: Circular polarized antennas for multipath rejection

Directional Antennas​

  • Yagi Antennas: High gain directional antennas for long range
  • Panel Antennas: Flat directional antennas with good gain
  • Patch Antennas: Compact directional option

Frequency Bands​

2.4 GHz Band​

  • Longer range potential
  • Better obstacle penetration
  • More crowded frequency band

5.8 GHz Band​

  • Higher data rates possible
  • Less interference from WiFi
  • More absorption by obstacles

Polarization​

Linear Polarization​

  • Vertical or horizontal orientation
  • Must match between TX and RX
  • Higher gain possible

Circular Polarization​

  • Reduced multipath interference
  • Less sensitive to orientation
  • Slightly lower gain

Antenna Gain​

Higher gain antennas provide:

  • Increased range
  • More directional radiation pattern
  • Reduced coverage area
Legal Considerations

Check local regulations for maximum allowed antenna gain and transmission power in your area.

Connector Types​

Common connector types:

  • SMA: Most common for small WiFi adapters
  • RP-SMA: Reverse polarity SMA
  • U.FL/IPEX: Small connectors for internal antennas
info

Always ensure impedance matching (typically 50 ohms) between antenna and transmitter.

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