SPIDER Automation | 5.8GHz 2.8dBi RHCP Lollipop Antenna | Omnidirectional FPV Antenna with RP-SMA Connector
Product Overview & Antenna Design
The SPIDER Automation 5.8GHz 2.8dBi RHCP Lollipop Antenna is a compact omnidirectional circularly polarized antenna developed for 5.8GHz FPV video transmission and reception systems. It uses right-hand circular polarization (RHCP) and is intended for compatible radio-control platforms, including FPV racing drones and quadcopters.
Unlike a directional patch antenna, an omnidirectional antenna is designed to provide RF coverage around its installation axis. This characteristic is useful on mobile platforms where the aircraft changes direction and orientation during flight. The antenna has a stated gain of 2.8dBi and a specified centre frequency of 5.8GHz.
Its compact antenna body measures 15 × 18 × 62mm and has a stated weight of 7g. An integrated 35cm cable and RP-SMA male connector provide the connection to compatible RF equipment, allowing the antenna to be positioned according to the mounting arrangement of the platform.
Technical Features & RF Performance Characteristics
- 5.8GHz Operating Frequency: Designed around a 5.8GHz centre frequency for use with compatible FPV video transmitters and receivers.
- 2.8dBi Gain: The stated gain provides a reference for comparing antenna performance. Actual RF link quality depends on transmitter power, receiver sensitivity, antenna placement, cable losses and surrounding RF conditions.
- Omnidirectional Radiation Pattern: Designed to provide coverage around the antenna rather than focusing the main radiation pattern in one narrow direction. This is useful for mobile FPV platforms that change heading during operation.
- RHCP Circular Polarization: Uses right-hand circular polarization. Matching the antenna polarization at both ends of the RF link is important for maintaining suitable polarization compatibility.
- Axial Ratio Characteristics: The design is described as having a favourable axial ratio. Axial ratio is an important parameter for evaluating how closely an antenna produces circular polarization; however, a numerical axial-ratio value is not provided.
- Low Standing-Wave Performance: The source describes low standing-wave characteristics. Since no numerical VSWR or return-loss measurement is supplied, a specific matching performance value cannot be stated.
- Radiation Efficiency: The stated radiation efficiency is greater than 50%. This represents the specified efficiency figure and should not be confused with total RF system efficiency.
- Integrated 35cm Cable: The cable provides an extended connection between the antenna and compatible equipment, supporting flexible placement within an FPV installation.
- Compact Construction: The small antenna body and 7g weight support installations where space and payload weight are limited.
- Temperature Operating Range: The specified operating temperature range is -40°C to 85°C, making the antenna suitable for systems designed to operate within these environmental limits.
Connector & RF Compatibility
The antenna is equipped with an RP-SMA male connector. An RP-SMA male connector has a male threaded connector body with a female centre contact. This differs from a standard SMA male connector, which uses a male centre pin. Confirm the exact connector type on the transmitter or receiver before installation, as SMA and RP-SMA interfaces are not electrically interchangeable solely because their external threads may appear similar.
The antenna uses RHCP polarization. For compatible circularly polarized FPV links, pair it with an RHCP antenna at the opposite end of the RF connection. The antenna’s 5.8GHz centre frequency should also be compatible with the operating frequency of the connected transmitter or receiver.
Mechanical Design & Installation
The compact antenna body and integrated cable make this model suitable for installations where the antenna needs to be positioned away from the main electronics or mounting point. The 35cm cable provides additional placement flexibility, while the lightweight construction helps limit the additional mass on small aircraft and RC platforms.
During installation, secure the antenna so that it does not move excessively under vibration or airflow. Avoid sharp bends, crushing or unnecessary tension on the cable, and ensure the RP-SMA connector is properly seated. Position the antenna with appropriate clearance from conductive structures and other RF components to reduce the possibility of installation-related interference or pattern distortion.
Applications
The 5.8GHz RHCP Lollipop Antenna is intended for compatible omnidirectional FPV and wireless video systems. Potential applications include:
- FPV Racing Drones: Antenna integration on compatible racing quadcopters using 5.8GHz RHCP video links.
- FPV Freestyle Quadcopter Platforms: Omnidirectional antenna coverage for aircraft that frequently change orientation during flight.
- RC Quadcopter Video Systems: Use with compatible 5.8GHz video transmitters and receivers.
- FPV Aircraft: Compact antenna installation on compatible fixed-wing FPV platforms.
- Multirotor Video Transmission: Integration into compatible multirotor video transmission systems.
- FPV Video Receivers: Use as a receiving antenna where the receiver supports RHCP polarization and the RP-SMA connection.
- Wireless Video Prototypes: Integration into compatible 5.8GHz RF development and testing setups.
- Compact RC Platforms: Applications where low antenna weight and a compact body are important installation considerations.
Package Includes
- 1 × 5.8GHz 2.8dBi RHCP Lollipop FPV Antenna with RP-SMA male connector and integrated cable
Product Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Omnidirectional FPV Antenna |
| Centre Frequency | 5.8GHz |
| Antenna Gain | 2.8dBi |
| Radiation Pattern | Omnidirectional |
| Polarization | RHCP (Right-Hand Circular Polarization) |
| Radiation Efficiency | Greater than 50% |
| Connector Type | RP-SMA |
| Connector Gender | Male (male body, female centre contact) |
| Cable Length | 35cm |
| Antenna Length | 15mm |
| Antenna Width | 18mm |
| Antenna Height | 62mm |
| Antenna Weight | 7g |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to 85°C |
| Shipping Weight | 0.01kg |
| Shipping Dimensions | 10 × 6 × 1cm |
Installation & Operating Recommendations
Correct connector selection, polarization matching and cable installation are important for reliable RF performance. Follow these recommendations when integrating the antenna into an FPV or 5.8GHz wireless video system:
- Verify RP-SMA Connector Compatibility: Confirm that the connected equipment has the correct RP-SMA mating interface, including the centre-contact arrangement.
- Match RHCP Polarization: Use an RHCP-compatible antenna at the other end of the wireless link where matching circular polarization is required.
- Confirm Operating Frequency: Ensure that the connected transmitter or receiver is designed for the 5.8GHz band.
- Route the Cable Carefully: Avoid sharp bends, crushing, excessive tension or repeated flexing of the integrated cable.
- Secure the Antenna: Use a suitable mounting arrangement to prevent excessive movement caused by vibration or airflow.
- Maintain RF Clearance: Position the antenna away from unnecessary conductive obstructions and other RF components where practical.
- Inspect the RF Connection: Check the cable and RP-SMA connector for physical damage or looseness before operation.
- Observe Temperature Limits: Keep the antenna within its specified operating temperature range of -40°C to 85°C.
