The 470 MHz to 510 MHz frequency range is a critical, license-free or lightly licensed band across many regions, often utilized for dedicated, low-power, long-range applications like LPD (Low Power Devices), specialized Private Mobile Radio (PMR), and emerging IoT/M2M deployments requiring deep indoor or long-distance penetration.
Standard straight antennas often interfere with device housing or require awkward placement. We present the 470–510MHz 90° Angle Antenna with MHF Connector, a specialized solution designed to overcome physical integration challenges while delivering robust, low-band connectivity. The integrated 90-degree bend allows the antenna to hug the chassis interior, creating a clean, low-profile design, while the ultra-compact MHF connector ensures a secure, space-saving link to your PCB. This assembly is engineered for reliable performance in complex environments where signal integrity and discreet placement are equally important.
Technical Specifications: High Performance in the UHF Band
This antenna assembly is engineered for optimal performance across the critical 470–510 MHz spectrum, balancing physical utility with electrical efficiency.
Frequency and Electrical Profile
Focused on the specific lower UHF band to maximize range and penetration capabilities, which are hallmarks of low-frequency communication.
Frequency Range: 470 MHz to 510 MHz (Optimized for LPD, PMR, and dedicated IoT applications in this band).
Antenna Type: Typically a monopole or dipole, configured for Omnidirectional coverage in the horizontal plane (when mounted vertically).
Polarization: Linear (Vertical).
Impedance: Standard 50 Ω to match virtually all RF modules.
VSWR: Engineered for low Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR), typically ≤2.0:1 across the band, ensuring maximum power transfer and minimal signal reflection back to the transmitter.
Mechanical and Connector Design
The distinguishing feature of this antenna is its tailored physical design, which simplifies integration into slim or oddly shaped enclosures.
Form Factor: Whip/Helix with Integrated 90° Angle. The right-angle design allows the radiating element to stand perpendicular to the PCB without external components, saving vertical space inside the housing.
Connector Type: MHF (Micro High Frequency) Connector (e.g., MHF-I, MHF-4). This is one of the industry's smallest micro-coaxial connectors, known for its minimal footprint and low-profile mating height.
Mounting: The 90° angle is typically molded or securely fixed, providing structural rigidity at the connection point while allowing the antenna element itself to be flexible or rigid, depending on the specific model.
Durability: Built with rugged materials to withstand temperature fluctuations (e.g., −40∘C to +85∘C), making it suitable for both consumer and industrial applications.
Application Scenarios: Concealed and Reliable Communication
The 470–510MHz 90° Angle MHF Antenna is the preferred choice for devices that require strong, long-range connectivity while maintaining a clean, sealed aesthetic.
1. Smart Grid and Utility Metering
Remote Metering Units (AMR/AMI): Water, gas, or electricity meters often sit in challenging environments (basements, metal enclosures). The 470–510 MHz band provides excellent building penetration. The 90° angle allows the antenna to be fitted snugly against the inner meter housing wall, ensuring the enclosure remains completely sealed and tamper-proof.
Infrastructure Monitoring: Used in sensors placed inside junction boxes or utility cabinets where space is tight and metal surrounding the device often degrades performance. The MHF connector facilitates simple, factory-level RF connection.
2. Professional and Public Safety Radio (PMR/LPD)
Handheld Radios and Pagers: For specialized compact radio units where a protruding antenna would be easily damaged or interfere with use. The right-angle design allows the antenna to exit the chassis at a flush, more protective angle.
Emergency Beacons and Trackers: Used in small, ruggedized tracking units for personnel or equipment in industrial settings. The low-frequency band provides wide-area coverage, and the internal mounting (via the angle) ensures device survival in harsh conditions.
3. Industrial IoT (IIoT) and Data Acquisition
Asset Tracking for Logistics: Devices used to track high-value equipment in large warehouses or complex manufacturing plants. The MHF connection and 90° form factor enable the tracking module to be seamlessly integrated into existing machinery or vehicle designs.
Environmental Sensing Stations: In remote weather or air quality monitoring stations, the internal placement ensures the antenna is protected from extreme weather, dust, and vandalism, crucial for long, maintenance-free deployments.
The Integration Advantage: Why Choose the MHF 90° Solution?
For engineers and product developers, this antenna offers specific design and manufacturing benefits that are difficult to achieve with standard components.
Space Efficiency and Aesthestics
The combination of the 90° angle and the micro-miniature MHF connector solves two major mechanical hurdles simultaneously:
Vertical Clearance: Eliminates the need for significant vertical space on the PCB, which is critical in slimline enclosures.
Discreet Design: Ensures the final product is clean, sleek, and fully sealed, as there is no need for external whip antennas or bulky protrusions.
Assembly and Reliability
The MHF connector is designed for automated or rapid manual assembly, minimizing complexity on the production line. Its robust snap-on mechanism provides a reliable, repeatable RF connection, reducing the risk of signal degradation due to poor contact over the product's lifespan. Furthermore, connecting the antenna at a 90° angle often helps in routing the cable away from noise-generating digital components, preserving the signal-to-noise ratio essential for long-range UHF communication.
Upgrade your connectivity without expanding your footprint. The 470–510MHz 90° Angle Antenna with MHF Connector is the ultimate solution for compact, high-performance, and dependable low-band wireless devices.
