Antenna -a key component for IoT-success

Welcome to my latest newsletter, where I delve into the topic of aligning antennas for optimal performance. All wireless IoT devices, from routers to sensors, use an antenna (or several). With a background in wireless spanning almost 30 years, antennas have always been central knowledge and a success factor in various use-cases. Proper alignment ensures reliable signal reception and transmission, whether setting up a directional or omnidirectional antenna.

Let's explore the differences between these antenna types and the steps to align them effectively.

Omnidirectional vs Directional Antenna: Understanding the Basics

Omnidirectional antennas transmit and receive signals in all directions, making them ideal for wide coverage areas. On the other hand, directional antennas focus their signal radiation in one specific direction, offering increased performance over shorter distances. Just picture the TV antennas of yesteryears on rooftops; that's the concept! Directional antennas require alignment towards a single mast to receive the best signal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Aligning Your Antenna

Step 1:?Locate the Base Station

The first step is to determine the location of the nearest base station. If you're operating your own network, you'll likely have this information readily available. If you are using a network with a provider, I recommend contacting your service provider to obtain the correct bearing towards the nearest base station.

Step 2:?Determine the Correct Height

If you're far from the base station, antenna height plays a crucial role in signal reception. Placing the antenna at a higher position offers a better line of sight and overcomes potential obstacles that may attenuate the signal. Typically, rooftop installations provide superior signal strength compared to facade mounting or, even worse, mounting the antenna at ground level. However, in some cases, reflections or obstacles at maximum height may require adjusting the antenna downwards for optimal performance.

Step 3:?How to Measure Performance

Signal strength and quality can vary due to various radio aspects, such as fading, reflections, and interferences. When measuring signal performance, utilizing advanced devices like routers or modems that display mobile network signal strength and quality is beneficial. However, with IoT devices like sensors, you can see the signal strength in the IoT platform in many cases. Alternatively, use separate measurement equipment. Perform measurements and realign the antenna, waiting 30 seconds or restarting the device before each test to ensure accurate results.

Step 4:?Test in Different Directions

Once you've identified the nearest base station, align the antenna towards that location or multiple locations based on available base stations. During testing, temporarily connect the antenna to the device without mounting it permanently. Test in at least four different directions, rotating the antenna in equal steps and noting the measurement values at each step. Avoid holding the antenna during the measurement to prevent inaccurate results.

Step 5:?Test Different Frequency Bands

If your device supports it, lock it to the specific frequency or frequencies your network operator supports and repeat the test. Testing with different frequency bands can optimize performance, providing better results than automatic frequency selection.

A Little Tip Along the Way

Remember that public networks' utilization and capacity distribution is constantly changing. If you experience poor performance, consider repeating the alignment process. It's also advisable to contact your service provider to inquire about any network adjustments or changes affecting performance.

Remember, running longer antenna cables may attenuate the signal, so avoiding excessive cable lengths is best. However, a slight signal loss may be acceptable if it allows for a more suitable mounting position.

These steps ensure your antenna is aligned correctly, improving signal strength and quality.

I hope this newsletter has provided valuable insights into properly aligning your antenna. Feel free to contact me with any further questions or need assistance. I wish you successful antenna alignment and enhanced network performance!