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Wireless Network Antennas
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Can I attach a higher gain antenna to my 802.11a access point?

Not easily. 802.11a's frequency band is actually segmented into three bands for operation in the US. The lower band covers 5.15-5.25GHz, the middle band ranges from 5.25-5.35GHz and the upper band is 5.725-5.825GHz.

The FCC's Part 15 rules are more stringent for products operating in the lowest 5.15-5.25GHz band, with the rule being no exposed connectors. This is specifically intended to prevent users from easily attaching higher-gain antennas.

However, by adding passive parabolic reflectors over an AP's dipole antenna(s), you can get the gain you want without having to change antennas! See the next FAQ

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