Antennas are the most overlooked component in FPV and the most critical for reliable video. A proper antenna setup can double your effective range.
Polarization
RHCP (Right-Hand Circular) is the FPV standard — 95% of aftermarket antennas. It rejects multipath interference. LHCP reduces cross-pilot interference in races. Critical: TX and RX antennas must use same polarization. Mixing loses 20-30dB.
Gain and Beam Patterns
Omni (1.5-2.5 dBi): Equal radiation for VTX side. TrueRC Singularity is gold standard. Patch (8-13 dBi): Wide directional beam for goggles. Helical (9-14 dBi): Narrow beam for maximum range. Crosshair/Pepperbox (10-13 dBi): Wider than helical with similar gain.
Placement Rules
Keep VTX antenna away from carbon fiber. Minimum 20mm from metal standoffs and battery strap buckles. Avoid sharp coax bends (RG178/RG316 min bend radius ~10mm). Use rigid TPU mounts that extend antenna above the battery.
