Antenna locations

[HDtallrider]

Hi all! The more I read the more questions I seem to have. What is the optimal location for the flight rx antenna? What is the best location for the FPV tx antenna? What about in relation to the GPS? What about interference from other components ( FCB, PDB etc. )? I don't know how big a deal the placement really is, but each article I've read seems to have a different opinion. The people in this forum seem to have the most real world experience. Please help. I just want to know if I'm worrying about nothing.

 

[HDtallrider]

worrying.... sorry

 

[holtneil]

Hi mate I am trying to remember what frame you have its the 500 size I hope , if the receiver has twin antenna you can place so the antenna in a V shape on top or under near the middle if they wont go into a V then just get them on different axis clear of the carbon frame as this will block signals , FPV mount front near the camera but as far away from the receiver as possible now if your using 5.8g it should not interfere with the receiver signal, FCB needs to be bang in the middle , depending on space in the frame if you use nylon spacers mount the PDB then put FCB on top ,this then has both items in the middle so its easier to wire up and keeps a good CG of the quad
What you can do is place units on the frame not fix them till your happy its right ,as you have folding legs ( I hope I have the right frame) when you run the power wires up the legs leave slack in the wire so as legs fold it does not strain the wires
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/...Nylon_Threaded_Spacer_10pc_UK_Warehouse_.html
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__35183__M3X10_Nylon_Screws_10pcs_bag_UK_Warehouse_.html

 

[HDtallrider]

Thanks holtneil. I have a spyder style frame. No folding legs. There is quite a bit of real estate to use. I do know enough to mount the FCB on the CG. I guess my question was about avoiding RF interference from the proximity to other antennas/components. From your explanation it doesn't seem to make a lot of difference. Correct?

 

[holtneil]

Hi If the FPV is 2.4g then it need to be as far away as poss , if its 5.8 it does not need to be as far but keep some distance ,if the antenna is on a different plane this will make sure signal does not get blocked , what a lot of us do it mount FPV under towards front ,receiver top , then gps up high at the back end , if you google FPV quads images this will show you what works on your frame shape this is some time an easier way to do it

 

[HDtallrider]

Hi. The FPV is 5.8ghz. It is the one you recommended to me. While I was waiting for your reply I decided to change the layout of my quad and have already disassembled it. I have way too much time on my hands..........LOL. Thanks again for the advice. I have a pretty clear idea of what to do now. Cheers!

 

[HDtallrider]

One more question. Is there any harm in mounting the FPV tx in the very back, sandwiched between the upper and lower frame, with the antenna sticking straight out the back? The frame is about a foot long. This would provide the maximum seperation and would probably look kinda cool.

 

[holtneil]

HI mate yes you can do but antenna must stick up right or the wave band will be transmitting its bubble into the ground , the rubber ducks are ok is you keep close by ,the ping pong ones are better ,if you look at the videos I sent you you can make your own its cheaper

 

[HDtallrider]

Ahhh.....I hadn't considered the directionality. Once again you have saved me from myself! I can't seem to stop trying to reinvent the wheel. I'm sure I'll do it again and you'll be called on to bail me out. Thanks, and have a good day!

 

[holtneil]

Hi mate its an easy mistake , it will be ok for a long time then one day you loose signal , while we are chatting FPV on the monitor or glasses , make sure you never able BLUE SCREEN , if reception ever start to go you will still get a bit of an image so you can turn back if the blue screen is on thats what your get a blue screen till its crashes

 

[HDtallrider]

I have seen many posts about blue screen. I believe the equipment I have purchased does not go BLUE SCREEN. I don't see myself going beyond LOS. Certainly not in the beginning. I also have GPS with return to home capability. Hopefully that will help. I already have the "ping pong" antenna's, and, if I understand you correctly that should give the FPV signal at least the range of the flight tx/rx. I think you have me on the right track now. No guarantees..... LOL

 

[holtneil]

Hi mate yes your spot on my friend