FPV is all about the quality of the picture that you see through your headset/goggles, the better the video signal the more satisfying the experience. In this review, we test a helical directional antenna to see if it provides gains over a basic mushroom/circular antenna.
Watch our full video review below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1nE1-ZOBc0
This antenna is not at the premium end of the spectrum and can be bought for a reasonable $15/£12 from HobbyKing or BangGood, considering the low cost we did not expect miracles.
Packaged in a basic branded cardboard box, the antenna is of fairly good build quality, does not feel cheap nor fragile. Fortunately its weight is minimal and so consequently it will not substantially increase the weight of the FPV headset when fitted.
Our testing of this antenna was only at fairly short range, just less than half a kilometer (500m). We were specifically looking at signal quality rather than an increase in range for this test, during which we obtained a stronger signal via the traditional circular mushroom antenna, which was supplied with the FatShark SE headset.
We intend on conducting further tests to look specifically at range, and a future review will demonstrate the utilization of this antenna with a diversity receiver to give a compromise between the two antenna styles.
Overall at this time, we have mixed feelings regarding this antenna, despite its low price, it does not appear to give improved video reception strength – but we also accept that it may give extended range and are yet to test that element.
You can buy the AOMWay 11Dbi 7-Turn Helical Antenna from either BangGood or HobbyKing using the following links:
– BangGood: https://goo.gl/W5jlus
– HobbyKing: https://goo.gl/E88Qv4
You can also visit the official AOMWay Website by clicking here.
Be sure to join the DroningON Discussion Group to get involved in conversation and debate, also be sure to comment below to let us know of your experience with helical antennas.