Re: How to choose an antenna?

rickyricardorockero wrote:
> Hello, I’m trying to find a good antenna to extend the range of my
> wireless network. I don’t know how to choose one. What im trying to
> figure out is the maximum distance that a particular antenna can radiate
> signals according to its transmitting power, antenna gain, and
> frequency. :huh:For example im looking at an antenna with a power input
> of 200mW and a 7dBi gain at 2.4GHz. That is all the information that the
> manufacture gives.:mad:

Without any specifics to go on, I'll toss this out.

The manufacture should at least say if its an omni-directional or
directional antenna. If the picture looks like a two or three foot long
piece of PVC pipe, its an omni.

How far do you want to extend your range? A 7 dB gain antenna will
double your range (6 dB = 4x gain over a 0 dB antenna and
4x gain = 2x the range), assuming it a clear line of sight (not counting
in Fresnel zone clearances).

200 mW input (maximum allowed power input?)?? Unless the antenna is
made of 1 micron gold plating on tissue paper, it should be able to
handle several watts of input power.

200 mW into the antenna with a 7 dB gain antenna will give you an
effective radiated power of one full watt, or double your range.