Antenna Placement Mistakes on FPV Wings and How to Fix Them

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Introduction

Flying FPV wings is an exciting experience, but poor antenna placement can seriously affect your video signal and control range. Whether you’re flying a DIY build or a ready-made wing, getting your antennas right is key to reducing signal dropouts and interference. In this guide, we’ll cover common antenna placement mistakes on FPV wings and practical tips to fix them.

Common Antenna Placement Mistakes

1. Placing Antennas Too Close to Carbon Fibre

Many FPV wing frames include carbon fibre spars or carbon-reinforced parts for strength. While great for durability, carbon fibre blocks RF signals. Placing antennas right next to or over carbon fibre can reduce signal strength and range.

2. Mounting Antennas Inside the Wing Foam

Some pilots hide antennas inside the wing foam for a clean look. Unfortunately, foam and other materials can attenuate (weaken) the signal, especially if the antenna is deep inside or surrounded by electronics or battery packs.

3. Antennas Too Close Together

For video transmitters (VTX) with diversity receivers, placing both antennas very close reduces the benefit of diversity. Signals may fade out simultaneously, negating the advantage of having multiple antennas.

4. Antennas Pointing in the Same Direction

Directional antennas or patch antennas need to be positioned to cover different angles. If both antennas face the same way, you lose coverage behind or to the sides of your wing.

How to Fix Antenna Placement Issues

Improving antenna placement doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are practical tips to help you get the best signal out of your FPV wing:

  • Keep antennas clear of carbon fibre: Use antenna extensions or mount antennas on plastic or wooden parts away from carbon spars.
  • Mount antennas externally: Fix antennas on the wing’s surface or in small plastic tubes glued on top of the wing to keep them unobstructed.
  • Separate antennas by at least 15–20cm: This spacing improves diversity reception and reduces signal interference.
  • Angle antennas differently: Position antennas at 90 degrees to each other (one vertical, one horizontal) to improve signal reception from different orientations.
  • Use flexible antenna mounts: These allow antennas to move slightly in the wind, reducing breakage and improving signal consistency.
  • Test your setup: Before flying, check your video feed range and signal quality on the ground to spot weak spots.

Additional Tips for UK Pilots

UK regulations limit the power output and frequencies you can use for FPV flying. Make sure your antenna setup complies with local rules, and use antennas matched to your transmitter’s frequency (e.g., 5.8GHz). Consider investing in high-quality antennas with proper connectors to reduce losses.

Conclusion

Good antenna placement is crucial for a smooth FPV flying experience, especially on wings where space and structure can challenge signal transmission. Avoid placing antennas near carbon fibre or inside the foam, separate and angle your antennas for diversity, and test your setup before taking off. With these simple fixes, you’ll enjoy clearer video and better control on every flight.

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