LoRaWAN antennas are core components of low-power wide-area networks (LPWANs). They utilize CSS spread spectrum technology to achieve long-distance, low-power communication, adapting to various IoT scenarios. Key information is as follows:
I. Core Parameters (Crucial for Selection)
Frequency Band: Commonly used in Asia: 433MHz/470-510MHz; Europe: 868MHz; America: 915MHz. Matching the region and device frequency band is required.
Gain: Higher gain results in longer transmission distance. Fiberglass antennas (3-20dBi) > magnetic antennas > adhesive rod/PCB antennas. Choose low gain for nodes and high gain for gateways.
VSWR: Ideal value = 1. Commercially available qualified products < 1.5. Matching directly affects signal loss.
Impedance: Universal 50Ω. Must match the LoRa module impedance to avoid signal reflection.
II. Mainstream Types and Applicable Scenarios
Chip/PCB Antenna: Miniaturized, integrated PCB, low cost. Wearable devices, small sensors.
External Adhesive Rod Antenna: Omnidirectional coverage, SMA interface, flexible installation. Smart home, indoor nodes, low-power modules (≤500mW).
Magnetic Antenna: Adhesive mounting, medium gain. Indoor gateways, temporary monitoring equipment.
Fiberglass Antenna: High gain, strong weather resistance (-45~110℃). Outdoor gateways, industrial monitoring, long-distance communication (module ≥2W).
Directional Antenna: High gain directional transmission, requires alignment. Border monitoring, cross-regional relay.
III. Core Advantages and Limitations
Advantages: Long transmission distance (15-20km in open areas, 2-5km in urban areas), extremely low power consumption (battery lifespan 10+ years), single gateway can connect tens of thousands of nodes, no spectrum fees.
Limitations: Low data rate (0.3-50kbps, does not support video), ISM band is susceptible to co-channel interference.
IV. EBYTE Compatibility Reference
EBYTE LoRa modules mostly support SMA interfaces. For beginners, choose the 433MHz glue rod antenna (compatible with E32 series modules, low cost); for industrial/outdoor scenarios, choose the fiberglass high-gain antenna (compatible with E890 series gateways, resistant to harsh environments). Bulk purchases can be matched with official frequency bands and power for even better cost performance.