Antennas

Antennas for LTE/5G & IoT: How to choose the right one

The right antenna is crucial for stable bandwidth. Choose based on the location (fixed or mobile), radiation pattern (directional or omnidirectional) and router technology (MIMO). Keep the cable runs short, installation is often the biggest performance lever.

Quick selection

• Is your device moving? → Omnidirectional antenna.
• Fixed location with weak reception? → Directional antenna.
• How many antenna ports does the router have? → 2 ports = 2x2 MIMO, 4 ports = 4x4 MIMO.

Antenna types at a glance

• Omnidirectional antennas: Ideal when the location of the base station is unknown or the device is moving (e.g. vehicles, mobile machines).
• Directional antennas (e.g. panel): Useful for fixed installations with weak reception when the direction of the base station is known.
• MIMO antennas: Modern LTE and 5G routers work with multiple antennas in parallel to achieve higher data rates. It is important that the antennas used enable true MIMO.
• Keep modern frequency ranges in mind: When choosing an antenna, pay attention to the supported frequency bands. Modern antennas often cover several bands (multiband), which gives you flexibility for future network changes.

Does this antenna match your router? 30-second check

• Ports: Count the antenna connectors on the router. 2 connectors = 2x2 MIMO, 4 connectors = 4x4 MIMO.
• Connectors: Do the connectors match? Typical types are SMA or N.
• Bands: Does the antenna cover the required frequency bands?

Cable length & attenuation: Low-loss pays off

• Keep it short and choose low-loss: Every coaxial cable introduces attenuation. Use low-loss antenna cables whenever possible, especially at higher frequencies (LTE/5G).
• Up to approx. 5 m: A standard low-loss antenna cable (e.g. our low-loss and LMR195 cables) is usually sufficient and easy to handle.
• Approx. 5-10 m: Continue using low-loss cable but keep an eye on the attenuation. If possible, move the router closer to the antenna instead of making the cable even longer.
• From approx. 10 m to 20 m: Plan with high-performance or ultra-low-loss cable of the 400 class (e.g. our CLF400 extension cable), otherwise the cable quickly eats up the antenna gain.
• Minimize transitions: Every adapter/pigtail adds additional attenuation. Better choose one suitable cable with the correct connectors than several extensions in a row.

Installation: What matters

• Choose a mounting position with clear line of sight: Place the antenna as high as possible and free from obstacles such as metal edges, walls, tanks or trees.
• Consider the right antenna type: For directional antennas, aim precisely at the base station. For omnidirectional antennas, ensure the most uniform radiation possible in the surrounding area.
• Observe polarization: Mount the antenna according to the required polarization (e.g. vertical, horizontal or ±45°) to avoid unnecessary attenuation.
• Small angles, big impact: Rotate/tilt the antenna in small steps and observe the radio parameters in the router/modem.
• Signal quality instead of just “bars”: Don’t just look at high signal strength, focus on good signal quality.
• Keep cable routes short and tidy: Use the shortest possible coaxial cables, route them properly, and avoid sharp bends and unnecessary transitions.
• Don’t forget documentation: Record the alignment (direction, tilt, height) and measured radio values to simplify future maintenance and troubleshooting.

Check the location: Signal tester (recommended)

Before you permanently install the antenna and cable, check the location with a mobile signal tester. This shows where the antenna really delivers the best performance and helps you avoid expensive rework.

View signal testers

FAQ

Which antenna is suitable for my router?

Count the ports (2 = 2x2 MIMO, 4 = 4x4 MIMO), check connector type (SMA/N), match the frequency bands.

How long can my cable be?

As short as possible and use adapters sparingly.

Directional antenna or omnidirectional antenna?

Mobile/changing cells → omnidirectional antenna.
Fixed location/weak reception → directional antenna.