Benefits of Using a Multi-Port Sector Antenna with 4x4 MIMO

Interest is rapidly growing in 4x4 Multiple Input/Multiple Output (4x4 MIMO), a strategy that if properly executed can increase a network’s overall capacity and data transmission capabilities.

While the concept of 4x4 MIMO has existed for at least a decade when specified by the 3GPP Release 8 in 2008, actual deployment didn’t start until 2016. Surging and persistent demand for mobile video, coupled with rising pressure from network operators, have forced mobile manufacturers to begin making devices with at least four embedded transceivers, which is a fundamental requirement in 4x4 MIMO. Now that more 4x4 MIMO-enabled devices are coming to market, WISPs finally have a viable reason to upgrade.

While there are many important things to consider during a 4x4 MIMO deployment, one decision you will have to make early on is how you will configure your antennas. While it’s possible to use two 2x2 antennas, varying degrees of horizontal or vertical spacing may be required to maximize gain. In theory, 4x4 MIMO antenna channels need to be uncorrelated which means a receiver can easily distinguish between separate bits of information on each channel. The other option, which is proving to be far more popular, is to consolidate your access points into a single, dual-polarized four-port sector antenna. This sector antenna contains two dual-polarized antenna arrays inside a single radome shell in which the arrays spacing is optimized by the manufacturer to minimize correlation. 

There are several benefits to taking the latter approach. First and foremost, this requires less hardware which will save valuable tower real estate. This is helpful if you have limited space, are operating in a dense urban area, or must conform to strict architectural guidelines. A multiport sector antenna is much easier on the eyes, too.

Implementing a single mounting point on a tower will also cut your infrastructure, installation and maintenance costs in half. So, from an expense standpoint, multiport sector antennas can be very beneficial for WISPs operating on tight budgets.

What’s more, you won’t have to sacrifice performance. With some radio equipment, it is possible to combine the beams from multiple access points, resulting in a signal boost.

Want to dig deeper into this topic? On August 28, we’re teaming up with ISP Supplies for our first antenna fundamentals overview and training class. This event will take place at ISP’s headquarters in College Station, Texas. This is a great chance to check out the latest innovations in antenna design, and to ask any questions you may have about strategy and deployment.

To register for this can’t-miss event, click here.