What is the Difference Between a 5x5 and 10x10 RFID Antenna?
Posted by Michael Crudele on
Another way of asking this question is about the difference between the S9028PCL96RTN and S9025PRNF UHF RFID antennas.
To answer this question, the difference boils down to the relationship between an antenna's gain and beamwidth. The reality is as long as you don’t need these to cover a distance over 3 meters or so, both will work. However, the gain (the ability of the antenna to travel a further distance) is inversely proportional to the antenna’s beamwidth (the size of the coverage area).
- The 5x5 S9025P antenna won’t transmit as far into the distance (maybe only 3 meters) but has a wide beamwidth (which could cause unwanted tag reads)
- The 10x10 S9028PC antenna will transmit further into the distance (maybe 5+ meters) but has a more narrow beamwidth (which could prevent unwanted tag reads)
In addition, consider that the 5x5 has VERY limited mounting options. The only bracket sold for the S9025P antenna is part# ALLPMTE-002. It is plastic, not heavy duty, and has limited range of motion.
The 10x10 is typically mounted with the heavy duty HDMNT-100MM bracket, which most installers prefer.
If you are still confused, we understand! Here is a visual representation:
