The 4.9- to 5.875-GHz band is used for a variety of wireless applications like 802.11a Wi-Fi, orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) like WiMAX, cellular backhaul, and some public safety communications. Parabolic dish antennas are sometimes used to extend the range and reliability of some of these systems. The HDDA5W HD serial antennas from Laird Technologies target these applications (see the figure). These antennas are available in four different models with two different gains and two different polarities:

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• HDDA5W-29: 29-dBi single polarity (horizontal or vertical)
• HDDA5W-29-DP: 29-dBi dual polarity (horizontal and vertical)
• HDDA5W-32: 32-dBi single polarity (horizontal or vertical)
• HDDA5W-32-DP: 32-dBi dual polarity (horizontal and vertical)

The antennas feature wideband operation and provide excellent performance in point-to-point links operating over great distances. Their rugged design contributes to a long operating service life in extreme environments. Also, the antennas comply with European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) standards, specifically ETSI EN 302.326-3 DN1-DN5 and EN 300 833 Class 1 specifications, the most stringent specifications for point-to-point backhaul antennas.

The unique feed system is available in a single polarization version that can be mounted for vertical or horizontal polarization. A dual polarized version is available for systems that can utilize dual polarization to increase bandwidth or implement diversity. An optional fiberglass radome is available for added environmental protection.

The antennas boast a wide frequency range from 4.9 GHz to 5.5875 GHz. The voltage standing-wave ratio (VSWR) over that range is 1.5 to 1 for single polarization or 1.8 to 1 for dual polarization. Cross polarization suppression is greater than 30 dB. Port-to-port isolation for dual polarization also is greater than 30 dB. The drive impedance is a standard 50 Ω, and the maximum power input is 100 W.

The Laird HDDA5W HD series dish antennas operate over the 4.9- to 5.875-GHz band. They’re designed for backhaul and point-to-point applications like 802.11a and WiMAX.

The antennas are available in 29-dBi or 32-dBi gain versions with beamwidths of 6° and 4°, respectively. The 29-dBi antennas have a 25.5-in. diameter, while the 32-dBi antennas have a 36.5-in. diameter. They weigh 8 and 10 kg, respectively. A 30° downward tilt is possible.

Laird Technologies