MeshCore antenna optimisation
Multiply your LoRa range with appropriate antenna selection, positioning and configuration
Why your antenna represents the most critical component
You can acquire the most expensive MeshCore hardware, yet with inadequate antenna you will not exceed 200 metres. The antenna literally constitutes the only component transmitting and receiving Signals – everything depends upon it.
A proper antenna can enhance your range 5-10 fold. From 500 metres to 5 kilometres. From inside your dwelling to the entire neighbourhood. This guide explains how to select and optimise appropriate antennas.
Four categories of LoRa antennas
Rubber duck (included)
Standard flexible antenna accompanying most hardware. Practical but suboptimal.
Whip antenna
Straight rod antenna, superior to rubber duck. Fragile but more effective.
Dipole/fibreglass
Optimal selection for fixed installations. Robust, weatherproof, high gain.
Yagi directional
Directional antenna for specific bearing. Maximum range in single direction.
Antenna gain explained (dbi)
Gain is expressed in dBi (decibel isotropic). Every 3 dBi doubles your effective range. However: higher gain produces narrower radiation pattern.
0-3 dBi: low gain, wide pattern
Radiates in all directions (omnidirectional). Ideal for mobile usage (walking, cycling) because you cannot predict other node locations. Example: rubber duck antennas.
5-8 dBi: medium gain, balanced
Optimal selection for repeaters on dwellings or structures. Good range in horizontal direction, sufficiently wide to reach multiple sides. Example: fibreglass dipole antennas.
9+ dBi: high gain, narrow beam
Highly directional radiation pattern. Only useful when you know exactly where the other node is. EMPloyed for point-to-point links over extended distance. Example: Yagi antennas.
Antenna positioning: do's and Don'ts
✓ DO
- ✓Position antenna as high as possible (roof, loft, mast)
- ✓Ensure clear line of sight to other nodes
- ✓Mount antenna vertically for omnidirectional coverage
- ✓Utilise weatherproof antennas for outdoor deployment
- ✓Test different positions and measure range
✗ DON'T
- ✗Position antenna in metal enclosure (Faraday cage effect)
- ✗Lay antenna horizontally (unless specifically designed for it)
- ✗Acquire 915 MHz antenna in Britain (must be 868 MHz!)
- ✗Keep antenna indoors if you desire maximum range
- ✗Employ extended coax cables (every metre = Signal loss)
Frequently asked questions about antennas
Which antenna suits newcomers best?
A 5-6 dBi fibreglass dipole for £20-30 proves ideal. Robust, weatherproof, no aiming required. Brands: Laird, Taoglas, or generic LoRa 868MHz antennas on AliExpress.
Must my antenna be exactly 868 MHz?
Yes! In Britain, MeshCore EMPloys 868 MHz. American 915 MHz antennas perform poorly. Note: "LoRa antenna" without specification often means 915 MHz.
How do I mount an outdoor antenna?
Mount the antenna vertically on roof, mast or facade. Utilise L-bracket or pole mount. Protect connector from moisture with heat-shrink or tape. Route coax cable indoors.
What gain do I require for a repeater?
5-8 dBi proves optimal for repeaters. Higher gain (9+ dBi) creates excessively narrow beam and misses nodes above/below you. Lower gain (2-3 dBi) provides insufficient range.
Can I connect multiple antennas?
No, LoRa modules possess single antenna connections. You cannot achieve "more antennas = more range". Select one proper antenna and position it optimally.
Do I need to tune/adjust my antenna?
Ready-made LoRa antennas come pre-tuned for 868 MHz. No adjustment required. If you construct your own antenna (DIY), you need to measure SWR and adjust length.
Upgrade your antenna, multiply your range
The standard rubber duck antenna suffices for testing, but proves suboptimal. Invest £20-40 in a proper fibreglass dipole and multiply your range.