Marco de Ru, CTO at MiRO says that the company promotes the use of 3x3 MIMO (multiple input, multiple output) antenna technology wherever possible in wireless communications. MIMO refers to the process whereby multiple streams on a single antenna are used at both the source (transmitter) and the destination (receiver). The streams on antennas at each end of the communications circuit are combined to minimise errors through diversity and optimise data speed by utilising multiple streams.

“A great example of smart antenna technology is the combination of our MikroTik NetMETAL 5 3x3 radio with our 3x3 MIMO RF elements antennas which will yield higher network capacity and reduced packet loss. This technology is superior to 1x1 or 2x2 MIMO when one considers that with the increased number of transmission and receiving streams, the speed of the transmitted signal is exponentially increased,” De Ru explains.

RF elements’ carrier-class sector antennas are optimised for balanced performance between horizontal and vertical (H & V) antenna systems. Balanced radiation patterns and gain are achieved through technology that includes the integration of frequency-selective reflectors into the antenna structure to attenuate side lobes and backside radiation as well as superior port-to-port isolation. The reflectors are optimised for the particular frequency range in which the antenna is operating.

In addition, the incorporation of BackShield™ in these sector antennas allows optimisation for the best MIMO performance and reduction in co-location interference in cluster deployment.

Manufactured predominantly from high-quality aluminium, these antennas are compact, lightweight and extremely cost-effective. In a design innovation, which has since been adopted by other manufacturers, the RF ports on these antennas are secured by a detachable protective cover.

RF elements carrier class sector antennas are available in 5GHz 16dBi 3x3 (VVH) and 5GHz 16dBi 3x3 (HHV). The antennas feature multiple horizontal or vertical systems that can be used with standard dual polarised H&V wireless CPEs (customer premises equipment).

De Ru cautions user to ascertain in advance whether the devices clients are using on their network are capable of leveraging 3x3 MIMO technology before its implementation. “In instances where this is not the case, one would still be able to see benefits when using 2x2 MIMO client devices, especially in near line of sight application. However, given the option, 3x3 MIMO technology is the desirable route for users who require faster connectivity and minimal interference.”

MiRO maintains an experienced technical team who are able to provide advice on wireless convergence solutions geared around increasing productivity through enhanced connectivity.