FAQs – External Antennas

A C-V2X (Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything) external antenna is engineered to support direct and network-based communication between vehicles, infrastructure, pedestrians, and the cloud. By facilitating both direct and cellular network interfaces, it enhances road safety, traffic efficiency, and autonomous driving.

A cellular external antenna is specifically tuned for cellular frequency bands (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, 5G). Unlike GNSS or Wi-Fi antennas, it focuses on robust data and voice connections over licensed cellular networks, often featuring weatherproof housing for outdoor or mobile use.

A combination external antenna integrates multiple radio technologies—commonly cellular, GNSS, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth—within a single enclosure or radome. This all-in-one design reduces the need for multiple installation, and minimizes interference between different radio systems.

A GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) external antenna receives signals from satellite constellations like GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, or BeiDou. It provides precise location and timing information, essential for navigation, asset tracking, and fleet management applications.

ISM/LoRa antennas operate in unlicensed frequency bands (e.g., 868 MHz in Europe, 915 MHz in North America) and focus on low-power, long-range communication. In contrast, Wi-Fi or cellular antennas are optimized for higher data rates and different frequency bands (2.4/5 GHz for Wi-Fi, licensed bands for cellular).

An NFC (Near Field Communication) external antenna facilitates short-range data exchange (within a few centimeters). It’s widely used for contactless payments, access control, and device pairing, where close-proximity communication is crucial.

A Satcom (Satellite Communication) antenna is designed to transmit and receive signals from satellites. It’s used in remote locations or mobile platforms—such as ships, airplanes, or rural areas—where terrestrial networks are unavailable or unreliable.

A UWB (Ultra-Wideband) antenna supports high-bandwidth, low-power signals that provide centimeter-level accuracy for location tracking. UWB technology is commonly used in indoor positioning, asset tracking, and secure access systems.

Wi-Fi/Bluetooth antennas typically operate at 2.4, 5, or 7.125GHz Bands, requiring compact designs that fit consumer devices. They focus on moderate range, high data throughput, and compatibility with standard wireless protocols, differing from lower-frequency antennas in size and bandwidth requirements.

An mmWave (millimeter wave) antenna operates at extremely high frequencies (generally above 24 GHz), supporting ultra-high data rates and low latency. It’s vital for next-generation wireless systems like 5G, automotive radar, and high-speed point-to-point links.

Adhesive mounting uses a specialized tape or pad with an adhesive layer to affix the antenna to a surface. It’s quick to install, requires no drilling, and is best suited for lightweight antennas on smooth, clean surfaces.

Adhesive/magnet mounting combines a magnetic base with adhesive backing for versatile, non-destructive placement on metal or non-metal surfaces. It’s preferred when the antenna may need to be repositioned or removed without damaging the mounting surface.

Ceiling mounting positions the antenna overhead, often indoors, to provide broad coverage in open areas. Wall or pole mounting is more common outdoors or in industrial settings, allowing antennas to be installed at various heights or angles for optimal signal direction.

Click mounting features a bracket or housing that “clicks” or snaps the antenna into place without the need for tools. It allows for easy installation and quick maintenance, making it popular in modular or frequently serviced environments.

Direct mounting secures the antenna directly onto a device or chassis without additional brackets. This method reduces signal loss and is often used when space is limited or a clean, low-profile installation is desired.

Magnetic mounting uses a strong magnet in the antenna’s base, allowing it to be placed on metal surfaces without adhesives or fasteners. This is ideal for temporary or vehicle-based installations where drilling holes is undesirable.

Mirror rail mounting attaches the antenna to the side mirror struts on trucks, buses, or commercial vehicles. It positions the antenna at an elevated location for improved line-of-sight and signal strength.

A multi-mount antenna offers multiple installation options—like adhesive, screw, or magnetic—in one product. This flexibility makes it suitable for diverse applications and installation surfaces.

Pole/wall mounting typically uses brackets or clamps to secure the antenna to vertical surfaces or masts. These installations are more permanent and are often chosen for outdoor setups where stability and height are crucial.

Screw mounting uses threaded fasteners or bolts to attach the antenna to a surface. It provides a robust, vibration-resistant connection, ideal for applications exposed to constant movement or harsh conditions.

Terminal mounting refers to antennas that attach directly to a device’s RF terminal or connector (e.g., SMA, TNC). This setup offers a straightforward, compact solution often used in smaller electronics.

Wall mounting is commonly used for both indoor and outdoor antennas that need to be placed at a specific height or orientation. It’s a versatile option for Wi-Fi access points, building automation systems, and security applications.

Wall/desktop mounting allows the same antenna to be attached to a vertical surface or simply placed on a flat surface like a desk. This dual approach provides flexibility in various indoor scenarios.

Wall/pole mounting kits include hardware for both wall attachment and pole clamping. Users can choose the most suitable method depending on the environment, whether it’s a building facade or a mast-like structure.

A 4.3-10 mini-DIN (F) connector is a compact, low-PIM connector commonly seen in cellular infrastructure, including base stations and outdoor antennas. It offers easier handling and a lighter profile than older 7/16 DIN connectors.

An ACH connector is designed for robust, vibration-resistant connections, often in automotive and industrial settings. It differs from standard connectors (e.g., SMA, MCX) by emphasizing secure latching and reliable performance under harsh conditions.

FAKRA connectors are automotive-grade RF connectors featuring color-coded housings to indicate specific key codes and frequency ranges. This color-coding (e.g., Blue, Violet, Beige) prevents mismatching and simplifies installation in complex vehicle systems.

An I-PEX MHF-HT is a micro coax connector (commonly referred to as U.FL) that’s extremely small, making it ideal for devices with limited internal space like laptops, drones, and IoT modules.

An I-PEX MHFI (U.FL) connector is a variant that supports higher frequencies or stricter electrical requirements than MHF-HT. Though similar in size, MHFI typically offers enhanced performance at higher data rates.

MCX (Micro Coaxial) connectors feature a snap-on coupling mechanism and are smaller than SMA connectors. They’re preferred in applications where space is tight or where quick connect/disconnect is required, such as portable devices and GPS modules.

N Type connectors are threaded RF connectors that provide reliable performance up to 11 GHz or more. They are weatherproof, making them a popular choice for outdoor installations like wireless access points and backhaul links.

Some external antennas incorporate an RJ45 port for Power over Ethernet (PoE) or integrated networking, allowing a single cable to provide both data and power. This simplifies installations and reduces cabling complexity.

An RP (Reverse Polarity) N Type connector reverses the male/female center pin arrangement compared to a standard N Type. This design can help meet regulatory requirements or prevent accidental connection to incompatible equipment.

RP-SMA (Reverse Polarity SMA) has its center pin gender reversed compared to standard SMA. It’s commonly used in Wi-Fi products to comply with regulatory rules, making it more challenging to attach unauthorized high-gain antennas.

An SMA (SubMiniature Version A) connector is a small, threaded connector used up to 18 GHz. Unlike RP-SMA, it has a standard polarity center pin, making the two types incompatible without an adapter.

SMB (SubMiniature B) connectors feature a snap-on mechanism and are smaller than SMA connectors. They’re often used in automotive, GPS, and telecommunications applications requiring quick, reliable connections.

A TNC (Threaded Neill–Concelman) connector is a threaded version of the BNC connector, offering better performance at higher frequencies. It’s chosen when a secure, mid-sized connector is needed—larger than SMA but smaller than N Type.

A U.FL connector (also known as IPEX or MHF) is an ultra-miniature coax connector. It’s used to connect the antenna cable to a wireless module or PCB, minimizing space and cable bulk in compact designs.

An IP (Ingress Protection) rating indicates how well an antenna is sealed against dust and water. Higher numbers (e.g., IP67, IP68) offer greater protection, which is essential for outdoor or harsh environments.

IP21 guards against dripping water (vertically falling drops) and limited dust. It’s typically suitable for indoor or sheltered outdoor locations where direct rainfall or spray is minimal.

• IP41 protects against small solid objects and dripping water.
• IP44 safeguards against water splashes from any direction.
• IP52 focuses more on dust protection and angled water spray.

• IP54 offers partial dust protection and guards against water splashes.
• IP65 is fully dust-tight and protects against low-pressure water jets, making it more robust for outdoor use.

• IP66 is dust-tight and withstands powerful water jets.
• IP67 is dust-tight and protects against temporary submersion in water (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes).

IP69K is the highest ingress rating, designed to withstand high-pressure, high-temperature water jets. It’s often used in industries like food processing or automotive where intense washdowns are common.