Smith & Fisher Discuss Looking Into Omni-Directional Versus Directional Antennas
If you are in need of a signal boosting device you may have been faced with the decision between an omni-directional antenna and a directional antenna. While both antennas attempt to do the same task, they perform in very different ways and may appeal more or less to a particular person.
WOODBRIDGE, Va., Dec. 6, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- If you are in need of a signal boosting device you may have been faced with the decision between an omni-directional antenna and a directional antenna. While both antennas attempt to do the same task, they perform in very different ways and may appeal more or less to a particular person.
What is an Omni-Directional Antenna?
An omni-directional antenna is a device that both radiates and receives radio frequency (RF) energy and provides radiation in a 360 degree pattern that ensures connectivity in every direction. There are many benefits to using omni-directional antennas such as:
They boost 3G and 4G signals
They are easy to install
They are compatible with many cellular stations
This type of antenna is great for those who need a constant and consistent transmission in broad areas. It is also ideal for handling multiple providers at the same time. Though this may seem like an optimal choice for many interested parties, there are a few downsides to be aware of when it comes to omni-directional antennas such as:
- They have a much smaller range
- They may struggle to maintain a strong signal
- Due to the fact that omni-directional antennas are able to connect to cellular towers that are quite a distance away, they may have frequent difficulties maintaining a truly strong connection. However, if a cellular tower is in a fairly close range, this shouldn't be an issue.
What is a Directional Antenna?
A directional antenna has a radius of about 45-90 degrees. It typically focuses RF energy in a specific direction and limits connectivity to that one particular area. Directional antennas offer a more powerful connection due to their hyper-focused connection to one particular cell tower. In addition, it is imperative for directional antennas to be pointed at the correct cell tower so that they can establish a strong connection to it. Some of the benefits of installing a directional antenna include:
- They are efficient
- They are good for long distance connection
- Though there are many benefits to installing a directional antenna, there are also some important downsides associated with choosing this type of antenna over an omni-directional antenna.
The downsides to opting for a directional antenna are:
- They cannot cover large areas
- They aren't optimal for coverage indoors
- They are difficult to mount properly because they need to face the direction that coverage is desired
- Though directional antennas have a lot of important downsides, they are also optimal choices for people who need a strong connection in a smaller area.
What is the Best Option For You?
The best option for you depends on the circumstances in which you intend to use it. Omni-directional antennas are easy to install and can withstand supporting multiple providers with a steady and consistent signal while directional antennas can only support one provider. Though that's true, directional antennas offer a stronger and wider range of support because they are focused on one area. They are optimal for those who live in more rural areas.
Smith and Fisher is a broadcast and telecommunications consultancy specializing in affordable, flexible engineering solutions. We offer online and in-person radio frequency courses, radio frequency training, rf safety training,next gen tv atsc 3.0, full power fm stations, 5g safety, rf radiation evaluating, dts planning, and rf studies.
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