AANI-FB-0174-1 FPC Antenna: Measured Band Performance

Measured S11, realized gain, and efficiency reveal distinct performance regions across the device’s cellular bands. This report summarizes performance highlights, test methodologies, and integration guidance for field validation.

Product Overview & Band Mapping

AANI-FB-0174-1 FPC Antenna Lab Testing

Technical Specifications

The AANI-FB-0174-1 is a precision-engineered flexible printed circuit (FPC) antenna optimized for cellular and IoT ecosystems. It targets mid-band frequencies with a compact form factor ideal for edge-mounted integration.

Parameter Typical Value
Part Number AANI-FB-0174-1
Nominal Impedance 50 Ω
Declared Bands 1.71–2.69 GHz (Primary)
Connector Type FPC Tail / Coax Adapter
Target Use Case LTE IoT / CBRS / Gateways

Measured Efficiency & Gain Distribution

Mid-Band (1.71 - 2.69 GHz) - Peak Performance ~65-75% Efficiency
Wi-Fi/LTE Coexistence (2.4 - 2.7 GHz) ~50-60% Efficiency
Sub-GHz Band (698 - 960 MHz) <25% Efficiency

*Efficiency percentages represent average total radiation efficiency in a calibrated anechoic chamber environment.

Measurement Methodology

Testing was executed in a 3D fully anechoic chamber using a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). The system underwent full two-port SOLT calibration, accounting for cable loss and fixture parasitics. Samples were evaluated across various ground plane configurations to ensure data repeatability.

  • 1 MHz resolution for VSWR and S11 snapshots.
  • Standard gain reference antennas for absolute realized gain.

Mid / High Frequency Results

The 1.71–2.69 GHz region represents the primary resonance. In this window, S11 values remain consistently below -10dB (VSWR < 2:1), ensuring maximum power transfer. High directivity in the E-plane supports robust indoor penetration for IoT gateways.

Coexistence Note: Careful filtering is required when using the 2.4 GHz band simultaneously with Wi-Fi to prevent receiver desensitization.

Integration & Optimization Checklist

PCB Layout

Maintain a 10-20mm keepout zone from large metallic objects. Keep the ground plane consistent.

Matching Network

Use small series/shunt LC elements (1–10 nH / 0.5–5 pF) close to the feed to fine-tune S11.

Field Validation

Verify RSRP/RSSI and throughput against lab baselines in the final device enclosure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the expected VSWR for AANI-FB-0174-1? +
Engineers should expect a VSWR ≤ 2:1 within the primary 1.71–2.69 GHz frequency range. Outside this band, particularly in the sub-GHz region, VSWR will increase significantly, typically exceeding 3:1 without specialized matching.
How should I validate the antenna performance in a final product? +
Validation involves measuring S11/Return Loss on the fully assembled product. Field tests should include throughput analysis and RSRP/RSSI benchmarking in various environmental conditions to ensure link budget targets are met.
When is a matching network necessary? +
A matching network is recommended if the enclosure or nearby metal components cause a resonance shift. Adding series inductors or shunt capacitors allows designers to pull the resonance back into the desired frequency window, optimizing total efficiency.

Conclusion

The AANI-FB-0174-1 FPC antenna demonstrates superior efficiency and gain across mid-band cellular frequencies (1.71–2.69 GHz). While it offers usable performance for Wi-Fi coexistence, success depends heavily on ground plane integration and matching precision.

Mid-Band Optimization IoT Ready Lab-Validated
Classification