Antenna Placement Mistakes on FPV Wings and How to Fix Them

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Introduction

Flying FPV wings is an exciting way to experience long-range flights with smooth, gliding performance. However, one common issue that can ruin your flying experience is poor video signal quality. A major cause of this is improper antenna placement. In this post, we'll explore the typical antenna placement mistakes on FPV wings and practical ways to fix them, helping you get the best video link possible.

Common Antenna Placement Mistakes

FPV wings present unique challenges when it comes to antenna placement because of their shape and design. Here are the most frequent mistakes:

  • Mounting antennas too close to carbon fibre spars or electronics: Carbon fibre blocks radio signals, causing signal loss and interference.
  • Positioning antennas inside the fuselage or wing: Plastic and foam materials may seem harmless, but they can weaken the signal, especially if antennas are buried too deep.
  • Having antennas too close to each other: This can cause cross-interference and reduce diversity receiver performance.
  • Incorrect antenna orientation: FPV antennas are polarised, usually circular (RHCP or LHCP). Placing antennas at wrong angles reduces signal strength.
  • Lack of proper antenna mounting hardware: Using cheap or flexible mounts lets antennas vibrate or shift, affecting signal consistency.

How to Fix Antenna Placement Issues on FPV Wings

1. Keep Antennas Clear of Carbon Fibre and Electronics

Carbon fibre acts like a metal shield for RF signals. Always place your antennas away from carbon fibre spars, motor wires, ESCs, and other electronics. Ideally, mount antennas on non-conductive materials like plastic or foam parts of the wing.

2. Use External Antenna Tubes or Masts

Many FPV wings come with or can be modified to include small plastic tubes or masts that hold antennas above the wing surface. This prevents the foam and structure from absorbing or blocking signals. Position these tubes near the wing tips or trailing edges, away from carbon fibre.

3. Separate the Antennas Properly

For diversity receivers, antennas should be spaced at least 15-20 cm apart to minimise interference. This often means mounting one antenna on each wing tip or at opposite ends of the fuselage.

4. Maintain Correct Orientation

Check your antenna type and orient them properly. For circular polarised antennas, keep them vertical or perpendicular to the ground during flight. Avoid placing antennas horizontally or at odd angles that reduce effective polarisation match with your goggles or ground station.

5. Secure Your Antennas Firmly

Use proper mounts or 3D printed holders to keep antennas steady. This prevents vibration and movement that can cause signal dropouts.

Additional Tips for UK Makers and Pilots

  • Consider using low-profile, flexible antennas designed for wings, which blend with the aircraft while maintaining good signal.
  • Test your setup on the ground by walking around the wing and checking for signal dropouts before flying.
  • Keep in mind UK regulations regarding FPV frequencies and power limits to ensure safe, legal operation.

Conclusion

Good antenna placement is critical for a reliable FPV video link on wings. Avoid carbon fibre interference, keep antennas external and well spaced, orient them correctly, and secure them firmly. With a little planning and some simple fixes, you’ll enjoy clearer video and longer flights with your FPV wing.

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