Omni for an area, sector for a corridor, directional for links
Higher gain means a narrower beam and stricter aiming
Directly below a ceiling omni is a weak spot; mount at 2.6–3.2m
01 The three families
| Type | Horizontal beam | Gain | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Omni | 360° | 3–8 dBi | Rooms, meeting rooms, central point of a site |
| Sector | 60–120° | 8–15 dBi | Corridors, long dormitory layouts, sports halls |
| Directional / dish | 10–30° | 15–25 dBi | Building-to-building backhaul, long links |
Higher gain means a narrower beam and stricter aiming; outdoor links must clear the Fresnel zone.
02 Three questions before choosing
- Is the target an area or a line? An area calls for omni, a line for a sector.
- Is it client access or a backhaul link? Backhauls are always directional for range and stability.
- Any metal obstructions or heavy interference? Metal ceilings and racking reshape the real pattern — raise or re-aim as needed.
03 Beam width and mounting height
A ceiling omni radiates like a doughnut, so directly below is a weak spot. Mount too high and you get signal far away but none at your feet — 2.6–3.2 m is a good indoor ceiling height. Mount sectors along the long axis of a corridor so the main lobe follows movement, and keep both ends of an outdoor link visible with adequate ground clearance.
Questions
Q1 Can I fit a higher-gain antenna?
Only on models with detachable antennas, and mind the connector type and regulatory EIRP limits. Integrated units cannot be changed.
Q2 What antenna for a long outdoor link?
Use a 5.8GHz directional bridge (dish or panel) in pairs — far more stable than omni APs.
Have a link distance and site photos? We can suggest antenna and power settings.