Cellular antennas

Two cellular antenna families have been released in the Optimizer range from Radio Frequency Systems. Both antenna families - the Optimizer 900/1800 dual-band and the Optimizer 'side-by-side' - introduce the performance characteristics of the cellular antenna range into multi-band configurations.

The dual-band antenna has been developed to meet the requirements of operators adding 1800 MHz services to existing GSM 900 networks. Available in 2 m (APX15GV-15DVB) and 1.3 m (APX13GV-15DVB) sizes, the antenna comprises an 1800 MHz array superimposed on a 900 MHz chassis, resulting in a dual-band antenna that has exactly the same physical dimensions as the single-band 900 MHz model. Each band has individual electrical specifications and supports independent variable electrical tilt (VET) from 0 to 10°.

The side-by-side antenna is a modular arrangement of two separate antennas under a shared radome that is only slightly wider than a single-band antenna. To be ultimately available in a range of different frequency combinations, the APX15DV-15WVL supports co-existent GSM 1800 and universal mobile telecommunications system UMTS services.

The 1800/2100 side-by-side antenna complements the broadband APXV18-2065XXL series (supporting GSM 1800, PCS 1900 and UMTS) as a solution for operates introducing third generation cellular services.

Both antenna types exhibit side lobe suppression typically better than 20 dB across the entire tilt and frequency range, significantly increased gain, a wide 0 to 10° of continuously-adjustable variable electrical tilt, improved front-to-back ratio (typically around 30 dB) and compatibility with RFS' remote tilt technology, the Optimizer RT.