Datasheet
2014 Microchip Technology Inc. DS70005171A-page 13
RN171
TABLE 3-1: TESTED EXTERNAL
ANTENNA TYPES
3.2.1 PCB TRACE ANTENNA
Modular certification of the RN171 module was
performed with the PCB trace antenna shown in
Figure 3-4. The exact dimensions of the trace antenna
must be followed. Gerber files for the PCB trace
antenna are available on the RN171 product web page
on the Microchip web site at http://www.microchip.com/
rn171.
FIGURE 3-4: PCB TRACE ANTENNA
3.2.2 CHIP ANTENNA
Modular certification of the RN171 module was pre-
formed with the fractus (http://www.fractus.com) chip
antenna part number FR05-S1-N-0-104. Peak gain
listed in the data sheet is 1.07 dBi. Any chip antenna
type may be used with the RN171 module provided the
gain is equal to or less than 1.07 dBi, and having similar
in-band and out-of-band radiation patterns as the frac-
tus antenna. For proper operation of the chip antenna,
refer to the data sheet for PCB footprint details and
mounting considerations.
3.2.3 WIRE ANTENNA
Modular certification of the RN171 module was per-
formed with the wire antenna shown in Figure 3-5.
FIGURE 3-5: WIRE ANTENNA
The antenna is an 18-gauge wire with a length of 1 inch
± 0.25. For best performance, the wire antenna should
be perpendicular to a generous ground plane, prefera-
bly at least ¼ wavelength of 2.4 GHz (1.2 inches/30
mm).
3.2.4 WHIP ANTENNA
Modular certification of the RN171 module was per-
formed with a whip antenna with a peak gain of 2.2 dBi.
Any whip antenna type may be used with the RN171
module provided the gain is equal to or less than 2.2
dBi, and having similar in-band and out-of-band radia-
tion patterns. Connection to the whip antenna can be
by a U.FL. Figure 3-6 shows a suggested PCB layout
for a U.FL connector.
FIGURE 3-6: U.FL CONNECTOR
Type Gain
PCB Trace 0 dBi
Chip 1.07 dBi
Wire 0 dBi
Whip 2.2 dBi
Note 1: An antenna type comprises antennas
having similar in-band and out-of-band
radiation patterns.
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Dimensions are in inches.