Page 1 of 1

Antenna questions

PostPosted: Tue Aug 20, 2002 4:46 am
by az2k
We are making good progress on selecting a T-1 provider so now we are looking at what would be the best antenna. We have decided on a 120 degree sector antenna as the best fit but the question is what gain would be reasonable. The maximum distance is probably 1500 feet.

I have put together a "cantenna" and it works quite well. What type of weather proofing is common? I was figuring on putting in some PVC and capping the ends but I wonder how much attenutation there would be through the PVC.

Thanks,

Keith

PostPosted: Tue Aug 20, 2002 5:32 am
by Thorn
Keith,
SWAG on the antenna: 14 - 15dBi. (SWAG = Scientific Wild Assed Guess :D)

About the PVC: It should be OK, but the best way to check is to place a short length in a microwave, with a glass of water. Zap it for thirty seconds. If the PVC feels warm (aside from any water vapor) it has absorbed some RF, and will therefore cause a loss. If is cool, then it hasn't absorbed enough to cause a significant loss. (The glass of water is used to prevent damaging the oven in case the RF is NOT absorbed by the PVC.)

PostPosted: Tue Aug 20, 2002 6:51 am
by az2k
Is your SWAG based on the end user having a directional antenna or based on them having whatever antenna comes with the device?

Thanks,

Keith

PostPosted: Tue Aug 20, 2002 7:10 am
by Thorn
Sorry, I should have made that a bit clearer. At 1500 feet, the device antenna will probably work, although a small exterior antenna would make life easier. It depends on the CPE. Some CPE have better antennae than others.