Antenna Optimisation

Reliable cellular connectivity is rarely limited by the router itself. In most industrial deployments, performance issues are caused by antenna choice, placement, and cable losses — not by the SIM or modem.

This page explains how we approach antenna optimisation for industrial LTE and 5G Sub-6 deployments, and why we deliberately avoid unnecessary or misleading antenna solutions.

Why Antennas Matter More Than Most People Expect

We frequently encounter sites where routers have been replaced, SIMs have been swapped, or higher-gain antennas have been added — with little or no improvement.

In most cases, the root cause is one or more of the following:

• Incorrect antenna type for the deployment
• Poor or misunderstood MIMO implementation
• Excessive antenna cable length and connector losses
• Over-reliance on “high-gain” marketing claims

Antenna optimisation is about controlling how the signal is transmitted and received, not simply increasing numbers on a datasheet.

Understanding MIMO (in Practical Terms)

Most modern industrial cellular routers use 2×2 MIMO. This allows the router to use two independent signal paths to improve reliability and throughput.

• Two connectors alone do not guarantee effective MIMO
• Poorly designed “MIMO” antennas can perform worse than a single good antenna
• Frequency coverage matters more than marketing labels

We focus on true 2×2 MIMO antennas with proper element separation, isolation, and wideband frequency support — ensuring strong LTE performance today and compatibility with future 5G Sub-6 deployments. For applications requiring higher-order MIMO, we can also supply 4×4 MIMO antenna solutions where deployment requirements justify the additional complexity.

Antenna Types We Use (and Why)

Low-Profile (Puck-Style) 2×2 MIMO Antennas

This is our default recommendation for the majority of installations.

• Industrial cabinets and kiosks
• Poles and enclosures
• Short cable runs
• Urban and suburban environments

Low-profile MIMO antennas offer low loss, predictable radiation patterns, and minimal installation complexity. In most cases, a properly selected puck antenna outperforms larger or higher-gain alternatives.

Directional Panel 2×2 MIMO Antennas

Directional panel antennas are a problem-solving tool, not a general upgrade. They are used when signal is weak or unstable and the serving base station direction is known.

• Weak signal areas and edge-of-coverage sites
• Fixed installations where the mast direction is known
• Sites where stability matters more than headline speed

Panel antennas must be aimed correctly. Incorrect orientation can reduce performance rather than improve it. When applied appropriately, they can significantly improve link stability.

High-Mount Omnidirectional Antennas (Selective Use)

High-mount omnidirectional antennas are used where mounting height and clearance are the primary constraints — not as a general upgrade. These antennas are typically deployed on poles, open or semi-rural installations, temporary or mobile infrastructure, and vehicle-mounted assets.

• Pole-mounted installations in semi-rural or open environments
• Temporary infrastructure requiring vertical mounting
• Vehicle-mounted or transport-related assets
• Applications where elevation is the dominant requirement

These antennas are used when deployment constraints cannot be addressed by standard low-profile solutions, and elevation becomes the dominant factor. Elevation matters more than advertised gain. Cable length and loss remain critical, particularly at longer mounting heights where cable runs increase.

Available with SMA or FAKRA connectors depending on deployment requirements. Connector choice is determined by mechanical environment and installation type, not RF performance. Where used in MIMO configurations, antenna spacing and isolation remain critical to achieving real-world performance benefits.

Compact Omnidirectional Antennas for Mobile & Vehicle-Mounted Assets

Compact omnidirectional antennas are used where vibration resistance, reduced-profile mounting, and mechanical reliability are required. These antennas are suited to applications involving vehicle motion, fleet telematics, and temporary installations where space and durability are constrained.

• Fleet and telematics deployments
• Service and utility vehicles
• Mobile routers and temporary installs
• Applications requiring reduced-profile mounting and vibration tolerance

FAKRA connectors are used in vehicle environments for mechanical reliability and industry-standard compatibility with mobile router systems. SMA connectors are typically used in industrial or fixed installations. Connector choice does not alter RF performance — it is determined by mechanical environment and installation practice.

These antennas are not automotive OEM "shark-fin" replacements. They are industrial RF antennas designed for robust connectivity in mobile environments, not aesthetic integration.

Connector Selection (Practical Summary)

Antenna connectors are chosen based on deployment environment and mechanical requirements, not marketing preference.

• SMA — standard industrial RF connector. Used in fixed installations, cabinets, and general industrial deployments.
• FAKRA — automotive-grade RF connector. Used in vehicle environments for mechanical reliability and vibration resistance.
• M12 — not used for RF antennas. Reserved for power, Ethernet, and fieldbus connections in industrial systems.

Assuming correct impedance and cable selection, connector type does not affect RF performance; it is selected for mechanical compatibility. Using the correct connector for the deployment environment reduces installation issues and improves long-term reliability.

Common Antenna Myths

• “Higher dBi always means better signal” — false. Gain reshapes radiation; it does not create power.
• “Outdoor antennas always perform better” — false. Placement and cable loss matter more than location.
• “Long antenna cables are fine” — false. Cable loss permanently degrades performance at LTE and 5G frequencies.
• “Any MIMO antenna is future-proof” — false. Frequency range and antenna design determine longevity.

Our Approach

We deliberately avoid offering a large catalogue of antennas. Instead, we focus on a small number of validated, wideband solutions that align with real deployment conditions, avoiding oversized, narrowband, or marketing-led antenna designs that do not translate into real-world performance gains.

• Match antenna design to router architecture
• Minimise cable losses wherever possible
• Avoid unnecessary complexity
• Select antennas that remain relevant as networks evolve

When Antenna Optimisation Adds the Most Value

• Connectivity is unstable or intermittent
• Signal readings are inconsistent
• Deployments operate in challenging RF environments
• Previous antenna changes have not improved performance

In these situations, the solution is rarely “a bigger antenna”. It is the right antenna, correctly deployed.

Discuss Your Deployment

If you need help selecting the right 2×2 MIMO antenna type, positioning it correctly, or stabilising performance in a difficult environment, we can advise on a practical solution that works in the field.