Antennas transmit and receive radio signals which are susceptible to Radio Frequency
(RF) obstructions and common sources of interference that can reduce the throughput
and range of the device to which they are connected. Follow these guidelines to
ensure the best possible antenna performance:
Install the antenna
vertically and mount it with the cables pointing toward the ground.
Keep the antenna away from
metal obstructions such as heating and air-conditioning ducts, large ceiling
trusses, building superstructures, and major power cabling runs. If
necessary, use a rigid conduit to lower the antenna away from these
obstructions.
The building construction
material density determines the number of walls the signal can pass through
and still maintain adequate signal strength.
Consider the following before
choosing the location for your antenna:
Signals penetrate
paper and vinyl walls with little change to signal strength.
Signals penetrate
only one or two solid and pre-cast concrete walls without degrading
signal strength.
Signals penetrate
three or four concrete and wood block walls without degrading signal
strength.
Signals penetrate
five or six drywall or wood wall without degrading signal
strength.
Signals will reflect
off thick metal wall and will not penetrate it at all.
Signals will reflect
off a chain link fence or wire mesh spaced between 1 and 1.5 inches
(2.5 and 3.8 cm).
The fence acts as a harmonic reflector that
blocks the signal.
Install the antenna away from
microwave ovens and 2 GHz cordless phones.
These products can cause signal
interference because they operate in the same frequency range as the
device to which your antenna is connected.
