This product is a complete 2.4 GHz rubber antenna assembly designed for devices that require an external, yet low-profile, antenna connection via a miniature cable. This assembly is ideal for applications demanding reliable Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n) and Bluetooth/BLE connectivity in portable, embedded, or specialized communication equipment.
The use of the MHF connector and coaxial cable allows the robust external antenna element to be mounted away from the device's main circuit board, isolating it from electronic noise and maximizing signal reception.
Component Breakdown and Features
This assembly combines three distinct components into a single, ready-to-use solution:
1. 2.4 GHz Rubber Antenna (Rubber Duck)
The antenna is housed in a durable, often flexible plastic or rubberized sheath, giving it the common name "rubber duck" antenna.
Frequency Tuning: It is precisely tuned for the 2.4 GHz ISM band (2400 MHz to 2500 MHz), ensuring optimal performance for all 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth communication protocols.
Radiation Pattern: Typically omnidirectional, meaning it radiates and receives signals equally in a 360° pattern horizontally. This is crucial for mobile devices or access points where the signal source's location is constantly changing.
Gain: Generally offers moderate gain, often between 2 dBi and 5 dBi, providing superior performance compared to small internal chip antennas.
Polarization: Most often uses Vertical Polarization, matching the polarization of standard Wi-Fi access points and routers.
2. Coaxial Cable
A flexible coaxial cable (often 1.13 mm or 1.37 mm diameter) is permanently attached to the base of the antenna and runs to the connector.
Function: The cable allows the external antenna to be connected to an internal radio module. It separates the antenna from the often electrically noisy environment of the main PCB.
Flexibility and Diameter: The cable is chosen for its high flexibility and thinness, making it easy to route within a device's chassis. However, the length must be kept short to minimize signal loss inherent in thin cables.
3. MHF Connector
The cable terminates in an MHF (Miniature High Frequency) series connector. This is a family of ultra-miniature snap-lock connectors, commonly referring to the U.FL or IPEX/IPX standard.
Miniaturization: This connector is one of the smallest available, designed to mate with a tiny surface-mount receptacle on the host device's circuit board.
Secure Connection: The snap-lock mechanism provides a reliable, secure connection that resists vibration and is easy to connect during manufacturing, crucial for portable devices.
Ideal Usage Scenarios
This antenna assembly is perfect for applications that need an external antenna for superior signal strength, but still require the connection point on the PCB to be ultra-miniature.
Industrial Routers and Gateways: Used on devices where the radio module is internal, but the antenna needs to be mounted externally (e.g., on the top of a plastic enclosure) to clear obstructions and maximize range.
Wireless Test Fixtures: Used to quickly attach a known, reliable external antenna to prototype boards or test setups via a simple U.FL jack for performance verification.
Compact Embedded Systems: Any handheld device, single-board computer, or custom enclosure where a standard SMA connector is too large, but an internal antenna's performance is insufficient.
Drones and Robotics: Used for 2.4 GHz control or telemetry links, providing a durable external antenna that can withstand minor impacts.
Integration and Installation Tips
When installing this antenna, optimal performance depends on attention to detail:
Mounting the Antenna: Ensure the rubber antenna is mounted vertically and is kept clear of surrounding metal objects (like enclosure screws or brackets) to prevent signal blockage or antenna detuning.
Cable Length: Utilize the shortest cable length available to minimize insertion loss, especially if the host device is battery-powered or operates at the edge of coverage.
Connector Reliability: While the MHF/U.FL connector is reliable, it is not designed for frequent mating/unmating cycles. It should be considered a semi-permanent connection once assembled inside the device.
