Conclusion

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Don't ignore the importance of the antennae. Choosing the right antenna and matching its characteristics to the best propagation path are the two most important factors in setting up a communications circuit. The weakest link in the communications circuit is the wrong propagation path. The best transmitter, antenna, and receiver are of little use if the the propagation path is improper.

The role of a wireless antenna is to direct radio frequency (RF) power from a radio into the coverage area. Different antennas produce different coverage patterns, however, and need to be selected and placed according to site coverage requirements.

Finally, remember that the choices made during the antenna selection process can make or break a WLAN system, just like the choice of speakers can make or break a stereo system. For example, a good antenna properly deployed can reduce stray RF radiation, by making the signal up to 100 times lower outside of the work area, and thus much harder to surreptitiously intercept.

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