Wireless connectivity is on the rise. Wireless networks provide both application and installation flexibility along with cost savings compared to many types of traditional wired networks.
If you are new to wireless networks, you might have some questions about the type of RF microwave and telecom-broadband products that would best meet your needs. L-com offers just that – not only the expertise to advise you on product choice but a huge selection of everything wireless, from RF filters/splitters to wireless access points, routers and adapters to wireless antennas.
This blog post zooms in on our antennas, the biggest selection you will find anywhere. In fact, don’t worry about the supply chain squeeze; the vast majority of our products are in-stock with same-day shipping. However, there are so many types and models to choose from that it can be confusing to shop for them. Before you begin, save yourself some time and read below as we guide you through the wireless maze.
Point-to-Point or Point-to-Multipoint?
Is your network architecture point-to-point or point-to-multipoint? Your answer will narrow down what type of antenna you need.
A point-to-point network (PtP) is a communications channel architecture that runs from one point to one other point using a dedicated link between one transmitter and one receiver. Directional antennas are used in a point-to-point wireless link.
A point-to-multipoint network (PtMP) runs from one point to several other points using one transmitter and several receivers. If you have a point-to-multipoint application, such as a campus environment, using a combination of directional and omnidirectional antennas is your best bet.
There are two main types of antennas: directional and omnidirectional.
Directional Antennas
Directional antennas emit an RF signal in a focused beam, like how a car headlight focuses light in one direction. They are great if your application requires a point-to-point wireless link. For example, if you want to transmit a signal from one building to another, use a directional antenna. L-com offers more than 200 directional antennas covering frequencies from 400 MHz up to 6 GHz. Some of the most popular applications these antennas address are WLAN, MIMO, LPWAN, ISM, RFID and SCADA.
One type of directional antenna is a Yagi antenna. It is especially useful for television reception and other applications where high gain and directivity is needed. Another type is a sector antenna, so called because of its circular, sector-shaped radiation pattern. It is commonly used for cell phone base stations and mobile communications applications. Other types of directional antennas include grid antennas, patch/panel antennas, dish antennas and log periodic antennas.
Omnidirectional Antennas
Omni antennas radiate an RF signal in a 360-degree pattern. They are ideal if you need the Wi-Fi signal to cover that full radius. L-com has more than 300 omnidirectional antennas covering frequencies from 300 MHz up to 6 GHz. Some of the most popular applications these antennas support include public safety, cellular and DAS.
One type of omni antenna is a rubber duck, so named because its monopole is sealed in a rubber or plastic jacket. L-com’s 50-plus rubber duck antennas are designed for such uses as PCS cellular radio, GPRS/EDGE, LTE and public wireless hotspots. Other types of omni antennas include antenna arrays, DAS, MIMO, mobile mount antennas, marine antennas, embedded PCB antennas and ceiling antennas, which are used in indoor wireless hotspots for hotels, schools, offices, etc.
For more guidance, read our white paper on “Choosing the Right Wi-Fi Antennas for Your Application.”
L-com pioneered same-day shipping for its connectivity products. Even in this time of supply chain challenges, our facilities are fully stocked and ready to support your business. Questions? Call us toll-free at 1-866-475-4922, chat with us live, or email us at sales@l-com.com.
