Favorite 900MHz antenna for hub?

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1

I have an ongoing ZWave mesh issue at one Hubitat location I want to try to improve. I will soon be able to try a number of experiments to get the mesh to perform better.

This location has EMT conduit and steel J-boxes as mandated by code so that makes RF more challenging.

One experiment I'd like to try is a better antenna for the hub. I've seen some threads on this, but many are dated now.

Is there a recommended antenna alternative to the Hubitat's stock antenna people have used with clear benefit? Any RSSi before/after data points? PER improvements?

I'd rather try something that folks have seen positive results with.

I'm on a C8-Pro.

2

There have been some fairly recent discussions about after-market antennas, and this one still seems to be the most recommended for ZW:

https://www.l-com.com/wireless-antenna-900-mhz-3-dbi-rubber-duck-antenna-rp-sma-plug-connector

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3

Yup - that's where I'd start. :slight_smile:

4

I’ve had success with this:

Also, cheaper (lots) and returnable.

5

I really like this antenna, excellent performance plus it comes with a 79" extension, allowing more flexible placement.
ANT-916-MHW-RPS-S-ND

https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/te-connectivity-linx/ANT-916-MHW-RPS-S/446320?s=N4IgTCBcDaIIIDkAqBaAnARgGwoLIAkB1FAJQAUBlFKhAERAF0BfIA

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6

Or maybe you need a Z-wave extender?

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7

I bought these from Mouser Electronics. The antennas for zigbee and z-wave are not the same frequency. They worked perfectly in a somewhat expansive mixed use environment on a C8. When I set up my C8 Pro I went with the stock antenna expecting to switch them but never needed to.

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For more info here is a 761 posts external antenna thread.

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I assume the the idea on the internet about pigtailing an external antenna off of the board of of the Zwave switches is right out :grinning: