What are the types of FPV Antennas?

Antennas used in FPV (First Person View) systems are crucial for video signal exchange and data transmission. FPV antennas are employed on the transmitter (TX) and receiver (RX) sides, and there are two main types: linear antennas and circular polarized antennas. Here are the basic varieties of each type:

Linear Antennas:

1. Dipole Antennas: Dipole antennas are one of the simplest and most commonly used FPV antennas. They typically come in a rectangular shape with four leaves.

2. Patch Antennas: Patch antennas offer higher gain and a focused signal. They are often preferred in high-speed FPV racing.

3. Helical Antennas: Helical antennas are circularly polarized antennas used to better direct the signal. They can be used on both the transmitter and receiver sides.

4. Yagi Antennas: Yagi antennas are used for long-range communication and are typically preferred on the FPV receiver side.

Circular Polarized Antennas:

1. Circularly Polarized (CP) Antennas: CP antennas provide versatile communication by circularly polarizing the signal. There are two main types: Right-Hand Circular Polarization (RHCP) and Left-Hand Circular Polarization (LHCP). These antennas are commonly used in FPV racing.

Dual Antenna Systems:

1. Diversity Antenna Systems: Diversity systems improve the quality of the received signal by simultaneously using two different antennas. They are located on the receiver side and automatically select the stronger or better signal.

2. Crosshair Antennas: Crosshair antennas are designed to be used with higher gain antennas and are often used in diversity systems.

FPV antennas should be selected based on the intended application, flight conditions, and communication requirements. Factors such as gain, directional characteristics, and polarization type are crucial considerations in antenna selection. Proper antenna choice and positioning are essential for achieving the best results in FPV applications.

FPV antennas are divided into two main categories:

1. Directional Antennas:

   • Provide longer range.
   • Focus signal power in a specific direction.
   • Have a narrower field of view.
   • Ideal for FPV racing and long-range flights.

   Some popular directional antennas include:

   • ImmersionRC SpiroNET
   • TBS Triumph
   • Lumenier AXII

2. Omni-Directional Antennas:

   • Emit a signal equally in all directions.
   • Provide shorter range.
   • Have a wider field of view.
   • Ideal for free flight and freestyle flights.

   Some popular omni-directional antennas include:

   • Omnibusto
   • Cloverleaf
   • Patch

When choosing an FPV antenna, consider the following:

1. Flight Style:

   • If you are racing, you will need a directional antenna for longer range.
   • For free flight or freestyle flights, you will need an omni-directional antenna that broadcasts the signal equally in all directions.

2. Flight Range:

   • For longer-range flights, you will need a higher gain antenna.

3. Field of View:

   • If you want a wider field of view, you will need an omni-directional antenna.

4. Frequency:

   • Your antenna should be compatible with the frequency of your drone's video transmitter.

5. Size and Weight:

   • Your antenna should be small and lightweight enough to be mounted on your drone.

FPV antennas significantly impact the quality of your FPV flights. By choosing the right antenna, you can achieve longer-range flights and receive clearer video signals.