An Introduction to Smart Antenna

Smart Antenna is an important accessory to use for precise communication. It works with the help of digital signal processing algorithms. This antenna is used in many wireless communication devices and reduces errors while communicating with each other. Besides, the smart antenna also boosts the speed of data between the sources and destination.

We will discuss everything related to Smart Antennas in this blog with its features, benefits, and the process of working. You will get a better idea of the smart antenna by reading this blog.

What is a Smart Antenna?

We discussed some lines on a smart antenna in the above section. Now, let us discuss more on this antenna with an explanation. A smart antenna is a kind of digital antenna that can track signals. It is used for various purposes such as telecommunications, radar, and signal processing.

Another name for a smart antenna is an adaptive array antenna. It is widely used in many applications such as wireless devices and reconfigurable broadband devices.

Functions of a Smart Antenna

Smart Antenna has 2 functions namely Estimation of Direction of arrival and Beamforming method. Let us discuss both the functions in detail:

1. Estimation of Direction of arrival

Different techniques help to find the DOA of a signal in a smart antenna. You have to do a lot of algorithms and computations to find DOA. The matrix Pencil method is a very common method to find the direction of arrival.

2. Beamforming method

In the beamforming method, the signals are sent to the smart antenna directionally. This method enhances the quality of signals that are transmitted to the smart antennas. Besides, this method also increases throughput and you can use various common antennas.

Different kinds of smart antennas

A smart antenna can be UHF Antenna and other kinds. It can be classified according to the kind of environment and system requirements. Now, let us discuss the different types of smart antennas in detail below:

1. Adaptive Array Antenna

In this antenna, there is a change in beam pattern due to the movement of the interference and the movement of the wanted user. All the signals received will be combined to increase the wanted signal to interference.

The smart antenna can bring the main beam in any one direction and eliminate the interfering signal. DOA method is used to calculate the direction of the beam.

2. Phased array or multi-beam antenna

This is another type of VHF Antenna in which there are multiple fixed beams in which only one beam will turn on and send the wanted signal. You have to do adjustments in the phase to do the required settings.

Benefits of using a smart antenna

A smart antenna has many nice features that help to improve signals during communication. It has several benefits such as:

• Better range

One will get a better range of operation in a smart antenna. This is because the smart antenna focuses on communicating devices. After installing this Log Periodic Dipole Antenna, the network providers can save costs. They will not have to use several antennas to get coverage.

• Less interference in the performance

Interference is often caused by transmissions that go in all directions. But in the case of a smart antenna, the directionality is caused by the antenna. Due to this pattern, you will get a better range and ability to use frequencies. You will get the proper communication pattern after using a smart antenna in any device.

• Multiple users

Yagi Antenna is a very commonly used antenna these days. The targeted nature of smart antenna frequencies gives comfort to multiple users to use this antenna. If the number of users increases, there is a reduction in the operating costs of a network provider. Using a directional antenna will help to decrease operational costs.

• Increases security

A smart antenna works differently from an Omni antenna. It radiates signals only in one signal and not in several directions like in the case of the Omni quadrifilar helix antenna. It means a person has to be in the same location to get better transmissions between two devices after using an antenna.

• Gives better coverage in the medium and long-distance areas

Smart antennas are widely used in complex wireless environments with different obstacles. They will enhance communication in areas with obstacles such as high and thick walls, partitions, meeting rooms, and penetrating surfaces. These antennas will give better coverage in such areas where communication is not possible.

Final words

We discussed many things about circular polarized high gain helical antenna and its features with benefits. A smart antenna can easily pass through obstacles and hurdles of a building and give better communication lines to multiple users at a time. It is one of the best antennas to be used in modern wireless communication services.

Gurleen Nayyar and I work for Antenna Experts, India's largest antenna equipment manufacturer, as a marketing specialist. To suit the demands of our customers, we deliver industry-leading equipment and custom-built solutions.