In today’s market, there are numerous types of backpack-style shielding devices available, varying in power, device size, and the number of antennas they come with. Some users may be concerned about the excessive number of antennas, as it affects the device’s aesthetics and concealability. This article aims to address the question of whether it is possible to reduce the number of antennas in shielding devices without compromising their effectiveness.
The Relationship between Antennas and Shielding Modules:
The number of antennas in a shielding device is directly proportional to the number of signal shielding modules it contains. To achieve complete shielding of 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, and WiFi signals, a shielding device needs to cover at least 10 to 12 frequency bands, according to various mobile phone standards. Consequently, a minimum of 10 to 12 shielding modules, each covering these frequency bands, must be installed, determining the number of antennas required.
Feasibility of Reducing the Number of Antennas:
In theory, it is possible to reduce the number of antennas without compromising the device’s functionality. Technically, there are no obstacles to achieving this. However, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Increased Size: Combining multiple antennas requires the use of a power combiner, which necessitates additional installation space. This increases the overall dimensions of the backpack-style shielding device, affecting its appearance.
- Signal Loss: The use of connectors or cables to connect the shielding modules’ RF output to the antennas via the power combiner results in some signal attenuation. Consequently, the effective power transmitted from the antennas may be reduced.
- Decreased Gain: Combining multiple frequency bands into a single transmitting antenna increases its bandwidth. However, this increase in bandwidth leads to a decrease in antenna gain, further reducing the effective transmission power of the backpack-style shielding device.
Conclusion:
The decision to merge multiple antennas in a shielding device is ultimately a trade-off. If maximizing the shielding effectiveness of the backpack-style shielding device is the priority, then the option of merging antennas should be abandoned. While reducing the number of antennas may improve aesthetics and concealability, it comes at the cost of increased device size, signal loss, and decreased antenna gain. Therefore, users must carefully consider their priorities and requirements before making a decision.