Appendix A Wireless LANs
WX3310-B0 User’s Guide
102
Types of Antennas for WLAN
There are two types of antennas used for wireless LAN applications.
• Omni-directional antennas send the RF signal out in all directions on a horizontal plane. The coverage
area is torus-shaped (like a donut) which makes these antennas ideal for a room environment. With a
wide coverage area, it is possible to make circular overlapping coverage areas with multiple access
points.
• Directional antennas concentrate the RF signal in a beam, like a flashlight does with the light from its
bulb. The angle of the beam determines the width of the coverage pattern. Angles typically range
from 20 degrees (very directional) to 120 degrees (less directional). Directional antennas are ideal for
hallways and outdoor point-to-point applications.
Positioning Antennas
In general, antennas should be mounted as high as practically possible and free of obstructions. In
point-to–point application, position both antennas at the same height and in a direct line of sight to
each other to attain the best performance.
For omni-directional antennas mounted on a table, desk, and so on, point the antenna up. For omni-
directional antennas mounted on a wall or ceiling, point the antenna down. For a single AP application,
place omni-directional antennas as close to the center of the coverage area as possible.
For directional antennas, point the antenna in the direction of the desired coverage area.
