Prestige 334W User’s Guide

Types of Antennas For WLAN

There are two types of antennas used for wireless LAN applications.

•Omni-directional antennas send the RF signal out in all directions on a horizontal plane. The coverage area is torus-shaped (like a donut) which makes these antennas ideal for a room environment. With a wide coverage area, it is possible to make circular overlapping coverage areas with multiple access points.

•Directional antennas concentrate the RF signal in a beam, like a flashlight. The angle of the beam width determines the direction of the coverage pattern; typically ranges from 20 degrees (less directional) to 90 degrees (very directional). The directional antennas are ideal for hallways and outdoor point-to-point applications.

Positioning Antennas

In general, antennas should be mounted as high as practically possible and free of obstructions. In point-to – point application, position both transmitting and receiving antenna at the same height and in a direct line of sight to each other to attend the best performance.

For omni-directional antennas mounted on a table, desk, and so on, point the antenna up. For omnidirectional antennas mounted on a wall or ceiling, point the antenna down. For a single AP application, place omni-directional antennas as close to the center of the coverage area as possible.

For directional antennas, point the antenna in the direction of the desired coverage area.

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Antenna Selection and Positioning Recommendation