LTE 450 MHz antennas: The right choice for critical infrastructures

The LTE 450 MHz network plays a critical role in providing secure and reliable communications for critical infrastructure, particularly in the energy industry. Unlike conventional LTE and 5G networks, it operates in a lower frequency range (400-500 MHz), which places special demands on antenna technology. Here we highlight the most important aspects when choosing the right LTE 450 MHz antenna. 

Why special antennas for LTE 450 MHz?

Frequency has a significant impact on the size and behaviour of antennas. "The lower the frequency, the bigger the antenna needs to be. This is due to the wavelength (lambda), which is longer at lower frequencies. For optimum antenna performance, 1/4 lambda or 1/2 lambda antennas are typically used. 1/4 lambda antennas also require a metallic ground plane for optimum performance. ½ lambda antennas do not require a ground plane and will achieve the performance specified in the data sheets regardless of the substrate. 

Table 1: Wavelengths of different frequencies

As the table shows, a 450 MHz antenna should be almost twice as large as an 800 MHz antenna.

Important aspects for selecting an LTE 450 MHz antenna

In addition to size, there are other factors that should be considered when selecting a suitable antenna:

• Mounting options and robustness: Especially for use in digital local network stations (digiONS), robust and vandal-proof antennas with suitable mounting options are crucial.
• MIMO antenna spacing: When using MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) with two antennas, the distance between the antennas must be significantly greater than at higher frequencies to avoid interference.
• Distance with multiple SMGWs: If several Smart Meter Gateways (SMGWs) are installed in the same room, there must also be sufficient distance between the antennas of the SMGWs.
• Optimisation for the uplink: As the base stations generally have better antennas and installations, the focus should be on the uplink area when selecting antennas for the terminals. For the 450connect network in Germany (band 72), this means optimising for the 451 to 456 MHz frequency range.
• Quality and performance: The quality and performance of the antenna is critical to the reliability of the entire communication solution, including the LTE 450 MHz router and the handset. A high quality antenna ensures a stable connection and optimal data transmission.
• Antenna type: There are different types of antennas for LTE 450 MHz, such as omnidirectional antennas, directional antennas and panel antennas. The choice of the right type depends on the specific requirements of the location. Omnidirectional antennas are suitable for area-wide coverage, while directional antennas offer a greater range in a specific direction.

LTE 450 MHz antennas for the energy industry

Specially designed LTE 450 MHz antennas are available for the energy industry to meet the specific requirements of this sector.These antennas are characterised by high robustness, weather resistance and secure mounting options. They are optimised for use in digital local loop stations, substations and other critical infrastructure.