Different Kinds of Antennae

Antennae have a variety of properties that define their operation and performance characteristics.

  • Frequency: Each antenna is tuned to a specific frequency by virtue of its size. You must match the frequency of the radio with the size of the antenna.

  • Power: Antennae are rated with a maximum power capacity (in terms of watts). Note, however, that given the relatively small power output of a typical WLAN radio, this is hardly ever a consideration. Most antennae are rated to withstand several watts of power, whereas most WLAN applications operate in the 30-100 milliwatt (mW) range.

  • Direction: Each antenna shapes the energy field in a particular direction. This pattern is often plotted in multiple dimensions to help visualize ...

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