Here is a step by step method for understanding how to choose the best antenna for your hotspot placement. Each placement demands a well matched antenna in order to provide value to the Helium Network and consequently earn the most HNT possible for that location. Do NOT, by the way, try to get the giant antenna in the picture below. While it looks huge and cool and rad, it is the wrong antenna to use for these deployments. I spent a fair amount of blood and treasure to learn that lesson. You don't need to.
First: Hotspot placement optimization is FAR more important than what antenna you use, more on that here.
Second, for those of you who just want AN ANSWER: Simple: Pick from the McGill selection. They'll all work well.
Put it outdoors at least 10' above all the buildings around you. Run 40' or less of LMR400 cable to it from your hotspot. If you have to go more than 40', use LMR600 if you're feeling extravagant. That'll probably get you 80% of the results you could get with far more effort and expertise.
Wait, you want to actually learn and match your antenna to your situation so you get the maximum rewards possible?
Ok, let's start with broad strokes: The antenna you choose for your hotspot placement should match your topography, your elevation, and your lines of sight.
Let's start with topography. Topography refers to the buildings, earth, and water that surround, channel, and block your radio signals (propagation.) The topic of radio propagation involves a tremendously deep dive all the way down to the fundamentals of physics, but we'll keep it pretty simple.
BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front) - The flatter your topography AND the more trees/vegetation you have blocking your Line of Sight to other hotspots, the higher gain antenna you can use, up to 9 dbi.
Remember, topography isn't just hills and mountains, it includes buildings, trees, and other obstacles.
Ok, let's get dirty! In general, earth in the form of mountains or hills will block radio signals. Even though a hotspot may seem very close to you, if there's a hill between the two of you, you probably won't witness each other.
You may check out your location on the Helium Explorer Coverage map and think you're perfectly positioned in regards to nearby hotspots, like this:
Remember to check Google Earth!
See how that spot is tucked into a bunch of hills? Unless you put up an antenna that'll stick over the top of the hills, you're restricted to witnessing only other hotspots in your immediate area, and in this case, that area is small!
One of the best tools to use when assessing a new site is HeliumVision. Remember, location is FAR more important than antennas. If you'd like to learn more about HeliumVision (I use it in every one of my consults) I've built a Master Class on it, over here.
Ok, so that's earth. Earth = No Radio Waves Getting Through.
What about buildings? How much will buildings block or reduce the power of radio propagation?
According to a study done in 2012 on a wide swath of building materials and focusing on the GSM 900 MHz band, a reinforced concrete wall that is 20cm / ~8" thick will attenuate the signal by 27 dB. An interior plaster wall will reduce power by anywhere from .8 to 3 dB.
What does that mean? Disclaimer: RF geeks, I'ma get loose with terms here. Relax.
This reduction in power is called "attenuation." In general with radio communications, you don't want any attenuation. Attenuation can happen with earth, buildings, forests, and even window coatings. How much power will you lose? Let's run some numbers.
American based hotspots start off by pushing out 27 dBm. European and other areas start WAY lower, at 14. Add the gain (dBi) from your antenna and subtract the losses from any connections to figure out your Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP).
That means a 6 dBi antenna will give you 33 dBm of EIRP with a US hotspot. 27dBm + 6dBi = 33dBm in the direction of antenna gain. Now you've got to calculate cable and connection loss.
As a rough rule of thumb, each connection (hotspot to antenna cable, antenna cable to antenna, or going through an enclosure wall using a connector) will drop your EIRP by .5 dB. Cable losses vary by cable, which is why most people use a "low loss" cable like LMR400. If you want to run your EIRP numbers, here's how.
Ok, ok, ok, why does it matter whether or not you know your EIRP?
Let's take a short detour into dBm and power. dBm is based on a logarithmic scale. For every increase of 3 dBm, there is twice as much power output. Every increase of 10 dBm has a tenfold increase in power. The difference between a 3 dBi antenna (what most hotspots ship with) and an aftermarket 9 dBi antenna is a factor of 4!
Of course, that 4x power comes at a cost; the beam is focused; more laser and less lightbulb. That means that unless you aim your antenna very carefully, you can blast all that power into places that have no hotspots.
Here is a great example demonstrating attenuation and topography. This hotspot is placed on the north side inside a building. It's up high with a higher gain antenna, and in general, inaccurately aimed over most of the nearby hotspots.
Most of the witnesses it's getting are further north. Some of the signals bounce off to the side, proving that "RF is weird."
To the south, the signals are blocked or attenuated by interior and exterior walls, but apparently there is a small window or opening where those weakened signals are escaping, then going pretty far over the water. Pretty neat, right? I mean, not for the hotspot owner, but it's a neat demonstration of the concept.
That image is also a great example of why you should never put a hotspot antenna inside; you are losing a ton of power before the radio waves ever get outside the building.
Water allows radio signals to travel much further than normal; look at any hotspot next to a body of water and you'll see it will connect with other hotspots at much further ranges across the water than it will across land.
Let's not get too into the weeds here. As I said at the beginning, the general rule for topography is this: The flatter your topography, the higher gain antenna you can use, up to 9 dBi for 95% of placements. Beyond 9 the pattern generally gets too precise to provide the Wide coverage (the W in WUPU) that we want.
Remember, topography includes not just hills, mountains, and water, but all the buildings, bridges, and other structures that might block your radio signal. Cities in general do not have a flat topography, even if they're built on flat land. All those spiky buildings sticking out will gobble up your radio signals.
That brings us to ELEVATION. If you want to bend your mind a little bit, think about this: The higher your elevation, the flatter the relative topography is, and the LOWER dbi antenna you can use. Wait, what?
Remember, a high dbi antenna focuses the signal of your antenna. In an omni antenna (we'll get to directional or sector antennas in a minute), that shape becomes a flatter and flatter plane. If that plane is super flat, it'll fly right over the tops of all those hotspots you want to hit. Let's go through 3 examples.
Now, those aren't how it *actually* works. The gain patterns are nowhere near as different, and a high gain antenna will STILL hit the ground within 1,000' of even a 100' building. Still, you can see why in *most* cases, you want a low or medium gain antenna up high.
You can also run that idea backwards; if you're in a really flat area where you don't have a lot of obstacles, a high gain antenna might be your best bet. Still, most people don't live in the desert, and the flattest state in America has a ton of trees on it. If that's your scenario, get a high gain (6-9 dBi) antenna up over the tops of those trees for maximum coverage.
That brings us in a roundabout way to Lines of Sight. Remember that $39 paper I quoted earlier regarding how much RF energy a given building material would absorb? The general takeaway for us Helium Hotspot owners is this: Our antennas won't blast through much more than 2 buildings.
That means if you're INSIDE the building, you've burned most of the energy of the antenna just getting outside the walls. If it hits just one more "thing", whether it's a building, a tree, or a billboard, that's probably the end of the line.
This "Lines of Sight" idea has an important implication in understanding how some of the top earning hotspot/antenna combos are doing so well. The hotspot Docile Bone Pony* (when this was written, one of the highest earners in the world) is on top of a 16 story building in a major city with a medium/high gain antenna (8 dbi from eBay on 60' of LMR400.) It has Lines of Sight to a lot of other hotspots, BUT those other hotspots don't have great lines of sight to other hotspots around 'em.
That means that DBP is seeing a lot of hotspots that AREN'T seeing a lot of hotspots. I'm going to anthropomorphize this a bit, but their only option is to communicate with DBP. So they do. And DBP earns like crazy. It's an example of the incredible earning potential that exists when providing asymmetric value to the network.
While we're on Lines of Sight, let's talk about the range of a standard hotspot. According to some excellent work done by the inimitable @para1 on Discord, most hotspots do most of their witnessing within a 10km range. Now, an in depth discussion of the implications and restrictions of this table is beyond the scope of this article, but your general takeaway should be "Optimize your antenna for hotpots within 10 km" aka most people don't need a high gain antenna.
@para1's table, posted in Discord
I'll double tap this range thing with an example of a hotspot I run, which has a 3 dBi HNTenna on top of a 20' pole on top of a ~30' building. It *routinely* gets witnesses over 200km away. While it seems that a high gain antenna will get you better range, it doesn't really matter. It's Line of Sight that is the secret here.
Finally, Lines of Sight can be blocked by forests. Depending on who you listen to, LoRa doesn't go through much more than 60 meters of dense forest. I'm sorry rural Florida, you've just got a tough row to hoe on that one. Dense forest in between you and other antennas is about the only time a higher gain (up to 9 dBi) makes sense, and even then it may not make a giant difference. Forests are RF sinks.
There is one more thing to think about with Lines of Sight. The 900 MHz frequency needs some runway, ideally 50'/15m to fan out enough to diffract around obstacles. Read that again and you'll have an advantage over everyone who doesn't get that concept.
The concept of Fresnel zones and diffraction in radio wave communication is one of the fundamental drivers of the "RF is weird" refrain you'll hear whenever you see a pattern that doesn't immediately make sense. Basically, the further out your radio waves go, the more they can spread out along their radiation pattern, the less likely that all of the waves get blocked, and the more likely that at least some of 'em will get to another hotspot.
At some distance they're so spread out that you're basically not going to make a connection, so the effective "window" shrinks back down. Like this:
Check out RadioMobile to get deep on Fresnel zones.
If you set up your antenna so that you've got lots of clear space around it before it hits obstacles, those radios waves have enough spread to start "bending around" those obstacles. This is yet another reason not to set up inside.
Here's another "I definitely didn't go to art school" drawing to demonstrate the idea of runway and diffraction.
If you give those radio waves some room to spread out, they can get around obstacles. Let 'em breathe!
Ok, we've got one more thing to consider before wrapping up. Many of you will have been scouring ham radio sites to figure out how to improve the range of your antenna. Keep in mind that the goal of many ham radio operators is incredible range, but that can come at the cost of broad coverage. Doing exactly what a ham operator does may give you the results they want, not what you want.
YOU want to hit as many high scale hotspots as possible. You'll usually do that by using a low gain antenna up high, with clear lines of sight all around.
Remember, you'll earn the most by delivering the most valuable & provable coverage to the network. The concept is simple. The execution can be complicated. If you want help with getting the maximum value out of your placements or strategy, I'm available for hire.
For those of you who skipped all that and just want to know what antenna to get, here are 4 generally good options for the 3 most common scenarios.
- In a building in the city? Get an outdoor HNTenna or a McGill in the 3-6 dBi range, put it outside up as high as you can.
- In a building where you just can't get up high? Use the stock antenna that came with your hotspot. Also, find a better placement location. You did read about that, right?
- In a suburban house? Get either the HNTenna or a McGill in the 3-6 dBi range and put it on a pole outside and up high.
- On a mountain where you can't possible transmit behind you (because the mountain will block your signal) and you have an enormous view of civilization and your nearest hotspot is more than 5 miles away? Try a 8-9 dBi patch antenna, like these.
I'll round this out with what to definitely NOT do. Don't just look at the gain of an antenna and think higher is better. Don't bother with Yagi antennas. Finally, don't worry too much about your antenna. In the big picture of earnings, it is FAR more important to have good placement and elevation. The fanciest, coolest, most high tech antenna in the world won't get you much if you're in a crappy location down low.
Best of luck with your placement and earnings, I'm stoked to be a part of this amazing community! If you’re looking for work in the Helium ecosystem, check out Helium Jobs. You can post and find jobs there, help support the ecosystem by making it easier to connect professionally, and let the world know that YOU exist and want to help contribute within the Network. Rock on!
Resources and Further Reading
A deeper dive into understanding how RF works.
Calculating RF Power Values (explains why a 6 dBi antenna doubles your power)
900 MHz: The Wireless Workhorse. (Probably why Helium chose LoRa)
List of Helium Hotspots & Their Antennas
Before you read this and assume that you must have a high gain antenna in order to get great earnings, please keep in mind that these hotspot owners are generally tinkerers and often have some expertise in RF theory. The results are a little skewed because of that.
UPDATE: HeliumVision now reports this for all hotspot owners who have entered this on Helium app. I've closed submissions on this page.
Docile Bone Pony - Elevation: 16 stories, Area: Greater Boston, MA. Antenna: 8 dbi omni from eBay, Cables: 60' of LMR400
Sweet Sage Pike - Elevation: 43' above ground, Area: San Diego, CA. Antenna: Nearson 9, Cables: 5' of LMR400
Chilly Blood Mongoose - Elevation: 41' above ground, Area: San Diego, CA. Antenna: Laird FG9026 (6 dbi), Cables: 5' of LMR400
Lucky Menthol Wasp - Elevation: 60' above ground, Area: San Diego, CA. Antenna: RAK 5.8 dbi, Cables: 11' LMR400
Nice Lipstick Chimpanzee - Elevation: 25' above ground, Area: San Francisco, CA. Antenna: RFMAX | ROSA-900-SNF, Cables: 5' LMR240
Interesting Pearl Starling - Elevation: 35' above ground, Area: North Shore, MA. Antenna: RAK 5.8 dbi, Cables: RAK pigtail interface converter bundled with antenna
Jumpy Iron Ferret - Elevation: 34th story, Area: Chicago, IL. Antenna: Stock, Cables: N/A. Indoor setup.
Kind Infrared Lynx - Elevation: 15' above ground, Area: Denver, CO. Antenna: Taoglas 8 dbi. Cables: 15' LMR400
Lucky Dijon Scallop - Elevation: 33' above ground. Area: Englewood, CO. Antenna: RAK 8 dbi. Cables: RAK pigtail cable
Sticky Pear Dolphin - Elevation: 311' above ground (mountain). Area: San Francisco, CA. Antenna: Oukeione 3 dbi. Cables: Bingfu
Petite Menthol Leopard - Elevation 25'. Area: Napa, CA. Antenna: 5.8 RAK. Cables: Bingfu
Best Tangerine Racoon - Elevation: Second Floor Window. Area: Bayonne, NJ Antenna: Stock 3 dBi Cables: 1m pigtail
Warm Juniper Panther - Elevation: 4th floor rooftop. Area: Bayonne, NJ Antenna: Nearson 9 dBi. Cables: 4' LMR400
Scrawny Eggplant Panda - Elevation: 35' Area: Lakewood, OH Antenna 4 dBi Multipole Cables: N/A
Ancient Cider Grasshopper - Elevation: 40' Area: Kansas City, MO Antenna: RAK Wireless 8 dBi Cables: 30' LMR400
Oblong Slate Platypus - Elevation: 400' Area: New York City, NY Antenna: Proxicast 10 dBi Cables: LMR400
Ripe Banana Goblin - Elevation: 2nd floor window Area: Vancouver, BC Antenna: Stock 3 dBi Cables: N/A
Trendy Rainbow Lizard - Elevation: 1st floor window Area: Vancouver, BC Antenna: Stock 3 dBi Cables: N/A
Striped Pewter Osprey - Elevation: 20' Area: Los Angeles, CA Antenna: RAk 5.8 Cables: LMR400
Helium, Explained (ELI5) | One man's search - 4/4/2021
[…] HUNDRED DOLLARS to spend! I want to make the MOST money. Ok, ok, relax. Read this article on how to match your Helium hotspot placement with your antenna. Buy any of the antennas that ParleyLabs sells. That’ll probably make you feel better […]
A Rough Guide To Helium Hotspot Placement | One man's search - 4/4/2021
[…] can read this in-depth article on how to match your placement with an antenna, but you’ve basically got 3 […]
How to take your Helium Hotspot off grid | One man's search - 4/4/2021
[…] from my experience and stick with a more appropriate antenna. You’ll probably never thank me because you won’t know the ass-pain you’re missing, […]
John - 4/6/2021
Hello there, I would like to ask you what antenna would best suit my future Hotspot. I'm in Toronto Ontario, 12th floor in a building of 20 floors. What is the best antenna for a balcony with nothing in front of me facing an open area. With only with very low houses.
Nik - 4/6/2021
Hi John, you might want a directional, though an omni would probably be cheaper & easier and less fidgety while being (in most cases) just as good. Really depends on local topography and density. This article should have pointed you in the right direction. If you need more help, I'm available for hire.
The Top 5 Mistakes to avoid with your Helium Hotspot | One man's search - 4/8/2021
[…] go through some variation of “What’s the best antenna, money is no object?” Please read the post on antennas to learn why that’s not a high-earning […]
Leon - 4/10/2021
Hello Nik, Wonderful article. I'm in Europe so does that mean I need to have a higher db antenna to get similar results? (European and other areas start lower, at 14. Add the gain (dBi) from your antenna and subtract the losses from any connections to figure out your Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP). And do you have any recommended antennas like the 1 you're using but for European frequency?
Nik - 4/10/2021
Hi Leon, thanks. Nope, you're restricted by Euro law to lower power settings. Don't sweat it too much, just look for an antenna appropriate for your setup. Usually a 5-6 dBi omni is your best bet.
John Watkins - 4/11/2021
Your article was very helpful as it wasn't too technical for the average hotspot owner. I have been experimenting with my setup a little. One thing your article didn't address is the effect the antigaming measures have on invalidating witnesses because your signal is too strong. Inside stock antenna, I can witness 3 hotspots and my closest is invalid at 360m. I put a 5.8dbi on my roof so it is now 35' above ground. Now, all of the hotspots I witnessed before are invalid most of the time with high SNR. I picked up some additional so it is pretty much a wash as far as rewards. It has been suggested that I put up a 3dbi to lessen invalids closer to me. An alternative would be put up an 8dbi to pick up more further hotspots and write off the closer ones. I have a bunch more on order and want to maximize things like everyone else. The 1 I have now is Blurry Viridian Goldfish. I have a 3dbi and 8dbi on order. Thanks!
Nik - 4/11/2021
Right on. Sounds like the stock up high will be a better option, especially if you have a ton of hotspots close enough to hit with that "general" 3dBi pattern (say, 8-10 km). You're spot on re. anti-gaming which is in general why I wrote the article; too many people think "higher dBi = better antenna" and it's just not the case, for multiple reasons. One thing to think about is that your HS is processing zero data transfer. Anecdotally that results in lower earnings. Pro tip: Add a Helium sensor nearby to track something you might be interested in, which will start pushing data through and make your HS nominally more useful. Remember, an HS is most valuable when it's providing coverage that meets all 4 of the following: 1) Wide 2) Useful 3) Provable 4) Unique. #wupu
Jimmy - 4/22/2021
any recommendation for antenna around Manhattan or NYC in general? if i use the antenna that came with it, would it still be profitable or is it something i should spend extra bucks for antenna? thanks
Nik - 4/22/2021
Hi Jimmy, The short version is that Manhattan isn't a great place to put in a hotspot, it's already well covered. The only reason would be if you have access to the top (roof top) of one of the highest buildings and can execute a Canyons & Crags strategy. If that's the case, you'd still want to stay under 8 dBi.
Action Jackson - 4/25/2021
Hi Nik Thanks for explaining in detail. I'm new into all this and waiting on my shipment of 2 nebra, I saw all these people posting videos of supercharging, and thought of digging up some more info. Im in Richmond BC Can. Right next to the river, on the other side is Van. And van side is on a high stretching out in higher elevation. Which dbi will u recommend? 5.8? 6?7?8
Nik - 4/25/2021
Hi Action Jackson :). The 5.8 is fine for most installments. Supercharging sounds like fizzy marketing, there's not really anything you can do on the hardware side that'll make a difference.
Stephen Refsnes - 4/25/2021
Love this Article, its amazing, THANK YOU! I was just wondering how long antenna-cable can i have from my hotspot to my 5.8 dBi antenna, without losing its signal/power or what i should call it. Thanks!
Nik - 4/25/2021
Thank you Stephen. Up to 60' of LMR400 has been tested and works well, scroll down to the bottom of the article for example setups.
Stephen Refsnes - 4/26/2021
Can i ask one more question? I found a 33 foot RP-SMA cable here in Norway, Its a RG316, low signal loss, 50 ?. Will this cable not work as good as your LMR400, or is it almost the same cable? :) Thanks!
Nik - 4/26/2021
Sure. LMR400 will be a better choice, with attenuation (loss) of 3.9 dB/100 feet. RG316 isn't the right cable to use, loss will be 27.2 dB/100'. These guys say they ship Helium specific cables throughout Europe.
RynoShark - 4/26/2021
If you are on the shore of a big lake with few hotspots on your side, but many numbers 5-10 miles away in line of site, would a high-gain antenna make more sense? It seems like a high gain, 50-100' off the surface of the water would make sense. Then perhaps find a location nearby (900 ft+ away) to install a separate short gain miner to capitalize on providing better local network service in the long term.
Nik - 4/26/2021
Maybe, though it wouldn't have to be super high gain. 5.8 dBi should be fine. LoRa goes a long way. :)
Dylan - 4/27/2021
Hi, I live in the Netherlands and is very flat over here, there are a lot of building tho, Can I use a 8dbi omni antenna if i place at the window? I want to use this antenna: https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B017RMFY2W/ref=ox\_sc\_act\_title\_1?smid=A23O0K3F9INFH2&psc=1 (translate it from German to English) Do you think it is any good? I want to place one at a window on the 3th floor and one somewhere else on the 5th floor Thank You for your answer, Dylan
Nik - 4/27/2021
Dylan, you *can* use that antenna, but if you put your efforts into getting the antenna outside you'll be able to provide much better coverage than focusing on what antenna to buy.
Ri?ards Eglitis - 4/27/2021
Just wanted to say big thanks for the investment in this artickle!
Linus - 4/29/2021
Hi, I ordered a Bobcat miner 300. Do you have any recommendations for antennas for this miner? LG
Nik - 4/29/2021
Will totally depend on your deployment. *Most* of the time you'll be fine with a stock antenna, and it's usually pretty easy/cheap to swap out antennas.
Mano - 4/29/2021
Hi Nik, Thank you for sharing your expertise. I live in rural area with the ocean just a 30 second drive from me. I am on a hill which allows me to get a panoramic oceanview. There are 3 hotspots 3.7 miles from me. I don't think there is any major obstruction between my house and the hotspots. Should I start with the stock antenna or get the 5.8 dbi? Also, what is a good 5.8 dbi cable for Bobcat. I am waiting for my miners to arrive but will definitely hire you for more advise. Cheers
Nik - 4/29/2021
Hi Mano, With a panoramic view and HS within 5 miles the stock antenna will be fine to start with. If you want to fiddle with it you can pickup a 5.8 dBi or lower, but there’s no huge need. Biggest step will be making sure your HS is outside.
Adrian - 4/30/2021
Hello living in a house in toronto ontario, what antenna should i get? only one floor + basement and my setup would be basement.
Paul - 5/1/2021
Great article, thanks! I’m located on a hill (80m), about 4km from the nearby town. All the hotspots I’m likely to connect to will be in the town, roughly within a 60 degree arc, between 4-10km distant. Is my best bet an 8dbi omnidirectional antenna, or is there something directional that might work better? Thanks.
Nik - 5/1/2021
Hi Paul, your best bet with that distance and elevation is a lower gain antenna. At 8 dBi you're more likely to break the RSSI/SNR boundaries Helium has set, resulting in invalid witnesses and lower earnings. You could do a directional antenna, but the omnis will work well and are usually easier to install.
Nik - 5/1/2021
Adrian, start by reading this article.
john dunne - 5/2/2021
Great article, Thank you for your help! Can you lower your high dbi antenna to perform like a lower abi antenna? For example if you bought a 10dbi antenna but wanted a 8dbi signal instead will using the "cable loss formula" help bring your antenna down to perform like a normal 8dbi antenna?? So a 12dbi antenna with 32 ft of rg58 will perform like 7ish dbi antenna? Thank you!! John
Nik - 5/2/2021
It'll have the same radiation pattern, just won't go as far. I'm not sure why you'd want that.
Post - 5/2/2021
This is a great resource. Thanks for sharing. I recently got an installed an antenna based on this information. Aside from (hopefully) seeing higher rewards, how can I know that my setup is better than the stock setup? Is there somewhere on Explorer I should be looking?
AM - 5/3/2021
Hey Nik, thanks, this is a very useful article. I am based in London UK and have access to the roof of our apartment block, which is 20m high. I intend to position the hotspot on the chimney with a powered cable running to the router. Mainly to get additional height I was going to get a 5.8dBi antenna, does this sound about right, or should I stick with 3dBi antenna? Thanks in advance
misk - 5/3/2021
I will use three devices 1 kilo apart, but the devices will be inside homes. Do you think things will be good with the attached antenna 4dbi bobcat
Nik - 5/3/2021
Not really, that's one of the things with antennas; you don't *really* know if it worked until you watch the earnings for a while. Usually 7 day is the minimum, although if you have radical differences that last at least 4 days that's a pretty strong indication as well. Great work on getting an antenna up!
Nik - 5/3/2021
Depends on how much higher you'll be than HS around you. If you're way higher and want to really reach out, the 5.8 might be a better bet, but I'd probably go with stock just to get that "globe" radiation pattern in the city.
Nik - 5/3/2021
Probably. Depends on what the actual Line of Sight is. Almost always better to get 'em outside.
Aaron Gooch - 5/3/2021
Hi NIK, which antenna would you recommend for a hotspot located in a suburban environment with many many tall pine trees surrounding all of the houses. I'm only going to be able to elevate the antenna to about 20-30 feet which is well below the tree line. The only thing I can find in stock at a decent price is an 8 dbi Rak antenna. Will this help penetrate the forest around me? I also ordered a 5.8 direct from Rak but no telling when it will arrive. Thanks!
Nik - 5/3/2021
The RAK 8 should be OK. Antennas are relatively cheap compared to earnings, so it's usually OK to buy one and if it doesn't work you can switch it out. Keep me posted on how it goes, I'm curious about real-world forest penetration at these freqs.
Aaron Gooch - 5/3/2021
Sounds good. I'll be back in a couple of weeks with an update.
AG - 5/3/2021
Nik, will you look at Pet Brunette Elephant and tell me how you think this hotspot owner is doing this? This hot spot is about 1.5 miles due south of my soon to be location. Thanks
lucy osinski - 5/3/2021
Amazing article and information wow thank you! I live in Santa Monica pretty high up far from hills in a suburban area. Can't decide between a 5.8 or 8dbi , any advice?
Nik - 5/3/2021
Looks like a directional antenna to me. I'd go with an omni if I were you, unless you're backed up to a hill with no over the back.
Nik - 5/3/2021
Hi Lucy, go with the 5.8. :). That's usually the best answer, though it can depend on how far away you are and what is in the way and what's behind you.
Todd Wise - 5/4/2021
Nik, this is the best info I've found! Thank you! I purchased a BOBCAT MINER 300, my terrain is relatively flat with the nearest hotspots about 7km away. Not sure if I should get a 5.8 or 8dbi omni?
Nik - 5/4/2021
Hi Todd, glad you're finding it useful. Either one should work pretty well, I'd go with the 5.8 just to avoid any potential clipping from being outside the RSSI/SNR parameters Helium has. Technically I'd probably buy both and test 'em, but that's just me. :)
Oreoninja - 5/5/2021
Hey Nik. Appreciate the useful info. I've added 2 of my hotspots to the list form to help the community. If the House WiFi isn't strong enough to get to the hotspot, do you think it'd be better to get a repeater/extender and hope to tacklet it or get a portable wifi usb hotspot? A portable wifi hotspot would cost ~$60 to buy and ~$50/month to run (Canadian data providers are expensive)
Nik - 5/5/2021
Interesting, I'm not sure about the extender. In general I avoid WiFi connections to hotspots at (most) costs. If you try it please let me know how it goes!
Doug - 5/6/2021
Nik, I've got a white 5.8 on the way. Will it be ok for me to paint blacK? Everything I've read about painting antennas says to you paints with no metalic properties so I'd definitely do that. I live in a neighborhood with a very strict HOA so I'm trying to keep it as discreet as possible. Thanks
Nik - 5/6/2021
Doug, shouldn't be a problem as long as the paint doesn't have any metal in it.
dominick dercole - 5/8/2021
anyone using an 18dbi?
Nik - 5/8/2021
Sure hope not, that'd be illegal in the US plus way too high for any profitable use.
Galen Schlich - 5/12/2021
Thank you for all of this great info.
Calvin - 5/12/2021
Hi Nik, I am going to place my hotspots on the top of a hill (~50m elevation) and top of a high-rise apartment (~120m elevation), should I stick with the stock 4.2 dbi antenna (Bobcat miner) or upgrade to the 5.8 dbi RAK? Given the high elevation I am worried that the latter might cause me to miss too many low elevation hotspots. What do you think? I live in China so the frequency there is 470mHz. Thanks
Douglas Johnson - 5/13/2021
I live in a community with a strict HOA so I am trying to be discreet. I will be mounting my 5.8dbi antenna on the side of the house up close to the roof line. It will be positioned parallel to the house about 2 inches away from the vinyl siding. Is two inches enough space or does it need to be positioned further away from the house? Remember, trying to be discreet.
Nik - 5/13/2021
Hi Calvin, you'll probably be fine with the stock. Depends on how far away other miners are, but usually the stock antenna works very well.
Nik - 5/13/2021
The further away the better, but sounds like you're constrained by HOA. Look into OTARD, you may have more leeway than you think.
Chance Carpenter - 5/13/2021
Hi Nik, I recently set up Jumpy Fern Copperhead in Scottsdale AZ. I placed the RAK in a custom-modified outdoor enclosure and purchased a 5.8dbi fiberglass antenna and 25' LMR-400 cable with .96dbi loss. It's mounted on a pine tree next to our house. The antenna is mounted to a 1" schedule 40 PVC that's about 15' long and that is mounted to the trunk of the tree. The antenna peaks above the top of the canopy about 2' and is pretty much vertical and at around 30' off the ground. I'm currently seeing 10 witnesses and earnings are decent at around 35 HNT per week so far. I'm not unhappy with that but what I'm noticing is that I'm hitting some witnesses that are really quite far away (one is nearly 50km) and missing a TON that are quite nearby. This makes me presume that this configuration is 'shooting over the top' of those nearby hotspots. That said, in looking at Helium.Vision I am noticing that a bunch of those nearby hotspots are online but not really connected to other hotspots near them and aren't earning much HNT at all. This makes me assume they just set them up in a windowsill and are hoping for the best (which is what I basically had to do for the first week while I waited for my antenna and cable arrived). So I've purchased a 40CM long fiberglass antenna that is 3.0dbi and am considering swapping out the 5.8 for the 3.0 and seeing if that allows me to connect to more of those that are closer. I also have 10 more Bobcat hotspots on order and plan to position them near-ish to my home and want to make sure I can connect to them. Does this make sense? I'd greatly appreciate any input. Thanks for publishing ALL this GREAT content and breaking it down for us Nubes. Your writing is succinct and clear and I really appreciate all the links to great resources and the research you've provided here for FREE. I'd also love to learn more about how to leverage and USE the network - not just provide it and earn from it. Any tips on that would also be appreciated.
Nik - 5/13/2021
Chance, sounds like a good plan to drop the gain down and "globe out" the pattern. I'd also think about buying/building a mapper and driving around to map near those other HS, just to see if they're actually working. You can buy an Adeunis (pricey and fragile, it's what I have but not recommended), a GLAMOS Walker (the current hotness, probably a little tweaky but a far better option than the Adeunis) or build your own (easily the coolest option.) Let me know what you find!
Calvin - 5/13/2021
Thanks a lot Nik. Also if I were to mount the antenna outside the window on my apartment (48th floor, top floor is 56) , would I then be just capturing only the hotspots on the direction that the windows is facing (as opposed to 360 degree with placing the antenna up high on the top of the apartment)? Thanks again, Calvin
Nik - 5/14/2021
Hi Calvin, when you say "on top" of the apartment, does that mean on top of the building or just up high in your apartment? On top of the building will be the preferred placement, but if you can't get that then getting it outside the window should be the next best option for you.
Brandon - 5/14/2021
Have you seen any fiberglass antennas attached to a chimney? If so, any suggestions on attaching? That would be the highest spot on my house.
Nik - 5/14/2021
Yep, plenty of 'em. Look for a "chimney Y mount" and use a pole to get it higher. Rock on!
Martin - 5/19/2021
Hi there, I’m thinking about installing my outdoor nebra miner With a 5.8 DBI Antenna. I’m wondering, if you have any insight. This would be in a densely populated area in Santa Clara County. It will be installed on the second floor of my house. Do you think I could make more if I was to install a 3DBI antenna instead? Any advice would be greatly appreciated, cheers
Nik - 5/19/2021
Probably not a huge difference between the two, although that can depend on the install a bit. I'd test 'em both just to be sure, but I bet you won't see a huge difference.
Kenny - 5/22/2021
Hi Nik, This is a great article, helped a lot to get a clue how this works. Im in the UK, and waiting for my bobcat miner 300. The area where I live is suburban with common 2 floor houses, but there are not too many HS around me. I beleive I would go with the 5.8dbi antenna, but couldn't find any of those you mentioned and in stock (5.8dbi, eu868, for outdoor use). I would appreciate if you could send me a link about a great example. Many thanks
Kenny - 5/22/2021
I mean all I found is for pre order, and none of them are the same as what you mentioned and nonone has them in stock.
Nik - 5/22/2021
Right on Kenny, glad it helped. This is my go-to antenna for 95% of all deployments going forward, though I'm not sure what shipping will be from the US to UK.
Kenny - 5/23/2021
Thank you for your answer. Do you think it is also a good choice? https://m.aliexpress.com/item/1005001830636995.html?spm=a2g0n.detail.0.0.1efbK5dkK5dktY&gps-id=storeRecommendH5&scm=1007.18500.187585.0&scm\_id=1007.18500.187585.0&scm-url=1007.18500.187585.0&pvid=15c0f474-a313-4bf1-bbee-f82aca972736&\_t=gps-id%3AstoreRecommendH5%2Cscm-url%3A1007.18500.187585.0%2Cpvid%3A15c0f474-a313-4bf1-bbee-f82aca972736%2Ctpp\_buckets%3A668%230%23131923%2322\_668%230%23131923%2322\_668%23888%233325%2310\_668%23888%233325%2310\_668%232846%238113%231998\_668%235811%2327182%2352\_668%232717%237567%23937\_\_668%233374%2315176%23832\_668%232846%238113%231998\_668%235811%2327182%2352\_668%232717%237567%23937\_668%233164%239976%23485\_668%233374%2315176%23832&browser\_id=3f4615d320884e65a7708e05c0e44033&aff\_trace\_key=eb5d1953c7c44735b229191673177008-1621767818556-04622-UneMJZVf&aff\_platform=msite&m\_page\_id=wqiqgsptyjwcavid17998e6221419fff680bc7a498&gclid=CjwKCAjw-qeFBhAsEiwA2G7Nl-RTd4OiIMNxa74MWiToCeojecV6q-TxIAmczvMopChAsDhrT5GUcRoCzWgQAvD\_BwE
Nik - 5/23/2021
Sure.
matt - 5/24/2021
Hey Nic. I live on a mountain or large hill, about 200m above sea level there are lot of trees around. Around 5km from me the hill drops down to a large city. Do you think it would be possible to hit any hotspots down there and if so what would be the best set up? Thanks in advanced.
Nik - 5/24/2021
Hey Matt, probably. Check it on HeliumVision, you can run an RF simulation from your proposed spot and have a pretty good idea of what you'll hit. Rock on!
Rudolph - 5/26/2021
Nik, Thank you for the excellent articles and response to questions. I’m going to mount an antenna on the roof of my apartment (outside) but the nearest hotspot is 2miles away, and I’d really like to hit some more in the 5mi range. Is your recommended antenna still appropriate in that situation, or would a higher dbi rating be better?
Rudolph - 5/26/2021
By the way, those mountains look familiar, are you the venerable Atomic Vanilla Locust?
Robert Engelbrecht - 5/26/2021
Nik. I'm 60' up on top of a small condo building ( Amusing Pistachio Python, Bobcat 300 + supplied antenna ). What would your fave ANT-NH900-OUT have as possible advantage/s ?. Thank you for all the valuable info you share with us ! !
Nik - 5/26/2021
Nope, that's another hs owner. I've got Amateur Jade Hare. :)
Nik - 5/26/2021
The HNTenna will be your best bet. I've got one that's hitting over 100 km shots. It's all about antenna elevation & line of sight, not about gain.
Nik - 5/26/2021
Should work as well or better than any other antenna out there. That's what I'm using on all my setups going forward.
Chase - 5/26/2021
Hi Nik, thank you for all of the great insights. I'm considering a Bobcat miner that comes with a 4dbi antenna, but based on your research, I realize a 5.8 - 8 dbi antenna could yield better earnings. My apartment building is a hollow rectangle. I live on the 2nd floor (14 ft from the ground) with a balcony that faces inward. If I set up my miner on the top 4th floor, unless there's a way to lock the cables, its fate would be left to chance that the apartment staff overlook it AND no one steals it, but up there it would face outward and would have plenty of room to diffract properly. With one nearby hotspot within 81m of my address and 6 others roughly between 500m - 1km away, would it be reasonable to expect significantly different results if it faced the inside of my building vs. the 4th floor facing outward?
Nik - 5/26/2021
Always better with clear LoS, but you can't always get that. This might be an instance where the HNTenna will really shine.
Robert Engelbrecht - 5/27/2021
Can you suggest another antenna other than your fave ANT-NH900-OUT ? They don't seem able or prepared to ship to Canada
Nik - 5/27/2021
Hi Robert, Sure, try this Laird.
Robert - 5/27/2021
Thanks Nik. I already have Parleylabs 5.8dBi & 8Bbi antennas here ( https://shop.parleylabs.com/products/rak-fiber-glass-lorawan-antenna-us915?variant=37264623468723 ) . Would they be much worse than the Laird you suggested ?
Nik - 5/27/2021
Nope, about the same.
Lynn - 5/28/2021
Thanks for helping all of us. Very kind
Kevin - 6/1/2021
Nik, Thank you for all your insight. I have 2 RAK and 4 BobCat's on order and plan on deploying them in a town of 125k with only one existing hotspot currently. All placements will be on home rooftops. I plan on mounting a 20' antenna to the chimney with the Miner and Hotspot in a weather proof box at the base and good cable up to antennas. Having read some of your advice I understand the benefit of the hotspot being w/in 5' of the antenna, however, this area has sporadic high winds and ant extra weight up high is an issue. Is the signal loss preventable with better cable? Or is there another direction I should look into/
Nik - 6/1/2021
Don't sweat 20' if you're using LMR400 cable.
J - 6/3/2021
I am looking at the HNTENNA, however I dont see anywhere where it mounts? The pictures just show it kind of floating, and I am trying to purchase all matching parts at once and am not sure what kind of mount or pole is needed.
Nik - 6/3/2021
It mounts to a right angle bar that comes with the package. You mount the bar to the pole, it has a flat part that sticks out at 90. The HNTenna mounts on that.
Nate - 6/3/2021
Hey Nik, really appreciate you and these articles. I'm in a building, urban setting, 8th floor, but on a hill so I'm higher than everything for hundreds of meters in front of me and some slices of my view are unobstructed for miles. Would the ANT-BH900-IN make much of a difference in my case? Thank you!
Nik - 6/3/2021
With unobstructed views you may not see a huge difference. Small differences can add up over time though. I look at it this way: At $120 more than the cheap antenna, I'm getting the best thing on the market (MP Antenna holds patents on their multi polarized antennas.) With HNT at $15, if having the antenna earns me just 8 extra HNT it'll pay for itself.
Nate - 6/5/2021
Thanks Nik. I'm trying to square the concepts in your article with your primary recommended antenna. You show in that drawing and write that a medium gain antenna at relatively high elevation is almost always best. However, the antenna you recommend for most setups boasts a 3 dbi gain, which seems like a low gain compared to the 9 dbi max. Am I missing something?
Nik - 6/5/2021
Typically with Helium, the lower the gain you can use the more witnesses you'll have as it won't break the RSSI/SNR curve. Anything above 6 usually starts creating more invalid witnesses than you want. Remember, the type of antenna you put on has far less effect than the elevation it's at or the location it's in. Don't get too twisted up about gain.
michael scott - 6/9/2021
60CM High Gain Long Range Wide Band 3G 4G LTE Cellular Omni Directional Fiberglass Antenna for 4G LTE Route... Sponsored 60CM High Gain Long Range Wide Band 3G 4G LTE Cellular Omni Directional Fiberglass Antenna for 4G LTE Router Modem Gateway Mobile Cell Phone Signal Booster Cellular Amplifier, Eifagur $89.99 FREE Delivery Mon, Jun 14 Only 17 left in stock - order soon. will these work for the rak miner? they are on amazon
Nik - 6/9/2021
Without seeing the details on it, I wouldn't say yes. I'd go with an HNTenna; they're built for Helium by folks who know what they're doing.
Gary - 6/12/2021
Hi Nik! We just got our helium miner and ordered the antenna you recommended. Our LMR 400 cable that we purchased Ntype female to sma male I believe. This does not fit the diameter to the screw on connector for the antenna. The antenna threaded connector is quite large. Any help would be great!
Nik - 6/12/2021
Hi Gary, check over on the connections page and see if you can match the pictures up to what you have. Also, I think you'll want an RP-SMA male, not an SMA Male.
Gary - 6/12/2021
Hey Nik thanks for getting back to me so quick! I already purchased an Rp-SMA Male to n female and that's not correct. I need the one that can screw on to the HNTenna and that I believe is the N type male but I will look. None of the ends will fit so the RP-SMA Male is incorrect no doubt. I will check the connections page if I can find it. Thanks again.
Nik - 6/12/2021
What miner did you get? The HNTenna outdoor has an N-type female connection, so your cable connector on the antenna side should be an N-type male.
Gary - 6/12/2021
Yes the HNTenna outside one. So I probably need an Ntype female to connect to the male on the antenna right? And the other end to the miner I guess I have to research that too. This is almost as confusing as buying a pressure washer and trying to fit quick connects on lol.
Gary - 6/12/2021
Thanks for the info Nik. I knew from looking at images of connectors that I needed a N-type Male connector, problem is, unless it's just me. The diameter of the female connector seems larger than usual. Am I right about this? Thank you for everything Nik! I can't wait to get this up on my chimney!
Nik - 6/12/2021
Hi Gary, it can be confusing. The connector on the outdoor HNTenna is an N-type Female. You'll need a cable with an N-type Male. What miner do you have?
Luljeta Gjoka - 6/13/2021
Hey Nick are these antennas available for Europe I have rak miners from calchip!
Nik - 6/13/2021
Some antennas can handle a wider frequency range than others. In general (and there ARE exceptions), US antennas won't work well in Europe, and vice versa. HNTenna is releasing a Euro version soon, check in with them to get the latest.
Jerry - 6/14/2021
Hi Nik, I am considering setting up a 3dbi antenna on top of my house in the suburbs. There is a large tree within about 40-50 ft horizontally from where I would place the antenna. The tree also probably has about 30-40 ft additional vertical height compared to the antenna. Do you think the antenna you recommend would be able to get the signal around the tree? There are also quite a few trees around the neighborhood that are of comparable size, although none of them are within 100 ft. I’m just wondering if the antenna will even be able to get any signal out at all or if the trees will ruin the signal. The only other option I could think of is to mount the antenna to the tree and have it coming out of the top of it. Thoughts?
Nik - 6/14/2021
Jerry, with all the horizontal distance you should be fine. It'll punch through a tree no prob; this ain't 5G. :)
corey huguley - 6/15/2021
I have a few questions and I would to contact me on my email. I own 66 acres of land want to mind helium on my land. I seen your picture and would like sent up mine like yours. But my question how do you get great wifi to your outside miner?
Nik - 6/15/2021
Hi Corey, check out the off grid post for more on how to do that.
Michael - 6/16/2021
Great article! Question: Would you anticipate any performance issues in mounting a 3 dbi hotspot antenna on the same mast as a small omni-directional outdoor TV antenna? Will being on the same mast hurt the performance of the helium hotspot antenna? Does it matter whether the hotspot antenna is above or below the TV antenna (other than to say that higher = better)?
Nik - 6/16/2021
Shouldn't be an issue, they're running on different freqs. Higher = better. ;)
Greg - 6/18/2021
The European HNTenna is available now... got two! Hopefully more in the future
Atilla Akdogan - 6/23/2021
Hi Nik, I am using the bobcat with the stock antenna outside on my patio on a 7th floor apartment, would the HNTenna be a better option for me? Also what cable would I need Ntype male to rpsma male? This is a great page you got here my friend kudos. Learned alot and still learning! Thank you!
Nik - 6/24/2021
Hi Atilla, the HNTenna will probably be a better option. For your cable you'll need RP-SMA male to N-male.
Chris - 6/28/2021
Hi, we're not connecting to anyone and we have hotspots within a mile away. We live on a golf course and the line of sight has a wall of 50 foot trees about 200 yards across a few fairways from the antennae. Beyond that is the club house, which is a pretty vast building. The line of sight runs right through the middle of it and the roof is about 20 feet tall. Then there is an open field before it gets to the neighborhood with the hotspots, but there is another set of trees and houses. I believe we are using the wrong antennae which is mounted to our chimney about 15 feet high from the ground.. Here are the specs: High Gain Omni Antenna For WiFi & Cell 3G 4G LTE (10 DBi) Wide Frequency Bands of 698MHz to 960MHz and 1710MHz to 2700MHz https://www.signalbooster.com/products/high-gain-omni-antenna-for-wifi-cell-3g-4g-lte-10-dbi Should we be using a lower dB? If so, what would you recommend. Appreciate any help.
Justin Miller - 6/28/2021
Hi Nik, Great info. I'm on a high elevation but in a ravine that faces the city. So really there's only 30 degrees where I have a field of view, but that's all of downtown. That said it's maybe 20 kilometers away. You mentioned this flat panel antenna: https://www.l-com.com/wireless-antenna-900-mhz-9-dbi-heavy-duty-flat-panel-antenna Would that be my best option? Thanks!
Nik - 6/28/2021
That actually sounds reasonable, give it a shot. :)
Nik - 6/28/2021
Looks like the wrong antenna to me. Try a RAK 5.8 or the HNTenna instead.
Lorant Jakab - 7/2/2021
Is the diamond BC 920 worth it? Will mining rewards be higher? Also it says it's a 9.3 db, will I have lots of problems? My area is Nanaimo but I want to go as far as Vancouver in Canada. Should I be buying a lower db antenna? Any one you recommend? I'm 103 ft above sea level, terrain relatively flat in the area, and towards Vancouver. Thanks Nik.
Nik - 7/3/2021
Hi Lorant, Almost no antenna will make rewards significantly higher. Remember, 80% of earnings come from location, than 15% from antenna *elevation* at that location, and the last 5% or so from the antenna choice. Unless there is a super clear reason (usually extraordinary distance and no other hs close by) I would steer clear of antenna gains over 6 dBi. If you'd like a location assessment along with specific antenna recommendations for your install, consider hiring us.
$51,273 Month Mining Helium...Placement+Elevation+Antenna - TecHubb - 7/5/2021
[…] What’s The Best Antenna For Your Helium Hotspot? […]
David - 7/5/2021
Nik, Thank you dearly for all of the data you've provided here. It's a lot to swallow for a neophyte. But laid out well enough that it makes more sense with additional reads. You suggest ANT-NH900-OUT. All things "equal" (pole, 10 over roof, cabining) in a moderately treed suburban area that is at about the same elevation over the path where the majority of downtown witnessing is hoped (14 ish Km as the crow flies), do you still suggest NH900 over Bobcat stock? If yes, why? I know that there are a high quantity of variables that can impact the results here, but just from a layman's perspective of putting up your suggested antenna vs stock in a suburban area and trying to witness into the downtown area which is about 10 mi away.
Nik - 7/5/2021
David, you're welcome. Keep in mind that antennas won't make a huge difference. Line of sight is key, and 14km is possible but out at the edge when it comes to profitability. Especially with trees (think the flat, well forested midwest area) it can be a super tough task to connect over 14 km. 1-3 km is more reasonable. Personally, I'd upgrade the antenna to an HNTenna just to wring the last few percentage points of performance out of it, but it may not be a huge difference.
Gary Titus - 7/5/2021
Hey Nik! Sorry I just saw I didn't answer your question. We have RAK version 2 miner. I still have it on the windowsill right now. We had to get the ladder, lightning arrester etc. I am so ready to put up the HNT miner! I was wondering if the nut and washer that came with the antenna would be sufficient enough to hold it onto the bracket? We will have it about 25" in the air which will clear the treeline and should be higher than any house or structure in our area. So far we have 5 witnesses with it on the window sill, which is about 10" up I believe. I also researched my area's topography on Google earth, and studied where most of the hotspots are. Thank you for all of your help!
Nik - 7/5/2021
Hi Gary, the mount that comes with the HNT is fine, just make sure you support the pole it's on. Can't wait to hear how it does.
What To Look For In A Helium Antenna - One Man's Search - 7/5/2021
[…] Hot tip up front: Antennas have very little to do with your earnings. Most of your earnings come from your placement, most of the rest comes from how high you can get in that placement, and the final little sliver comes from antenna choice. If you want to go deep into the best antenna for your Helium hotspot, read up on it here. […]
Gary - 7/12/2021
Hey Nik! I am attaching it to a 38" j pipe antenna mast. I have it secured with the provided worm clamps, and I also drilled 2 holes on each side of the mast so its secured by large bolts and curved washers. If the height isn't sufficient enough I will use a long schedule 40 pvc pipe as well. I will let you know when it goes up!
Gary - 7/12/2021
One more question (for now) Nik. Do you recommend PVC type conduit, or galvanized steel? I'm leaning toward pvc type, because if I do get 10 foot it will be easier to setup. I also think it would survive the weather. Your thoughts?
Nik - 7/12/2021
I'd go with metal, but I have a love affair with metal. As long as the PVC is strong enough, it should be OK short to mid term. Check to make sure whatever you're using doesn't deteriorate in the sun.
Brad - 7/13/2021
Any Recommendation for someone that lives on a mountain blocked on one side? I have several antennas to test, but if I want to get a few miles out, below be, would I be better with an 8DBI Omni or like a 4-5 standard Omni or maybe a directional? I love this post BTW, it was super helpful with the visuals!
Nik - 7/13/2021
Hi Brad, a 5-6 dBi omni will be fine for that. Best of luck with it!
Marie - 7/14/2021
Hi Nik! Love your website and I can't thank you enough for everything I've learned from you! I'm getting invalid witnessed beacons and I don't understand why. It says "witness_rssi_below_lower_bound". Could this be because I'm using 5.8 and 8dbi antennas and the beaconner is too close to my location? Would be great to see an article on the subject since there's not a lot of information online! Thanks for your help
Tim Heckel - 7/14/2021
Hi Nik - thanks so much for your help! Silly question - with the Hntenna, would you run the cable from the antenna inside to the miner? Or would you minimize the cable length and put the miner in an outdoor enclosure next to it? I assume the former, especially given my climate (MN). Lastly, you mentioned above that the bobcat miner -> hntenna would require a "RP-SMA male to N?male" -- any links/suggestions where to get one? Thanks again.
Nik - 7/14/2021
Yep, that's a likely reason. It's fine to have a few of those "out of bounds", you just don't want too many. I'll work on an RSSI article. :)
Nik - 7/14/2021
Not sure I understand the question. The HNTenna is fine outside, so you can keep the miner indoors and then run a cable out to it. If it was me, I always aim to get 'em outside with short cable runs; those projects are more fun. :). For cable, try USACoax.
Tom - 7/15/2021
Hi Nik and thans for all the helpful info. Very much appreciate the sharing. I bought the Flat Panel patch antenna on your recommendation via the link to L-Com. One question. You advise to "aim it carefully". Any further elaboration please? I am high on a bluff with a mountain behind and a vast swath of humanity across flat lands and lots of water. Thanks again
Nik - 7/15/2021
Hi Tom, unlike an omni it'll only really push out RF in one direction. You probably don't have to be *that* careful, just aim it at the middle of that swath and you'll be fine. Keep me posted on how it does!
Brad - 7/15/2021
Hi Nik thanks again for all of your wonderful advice. I have the 8 dbi working now and doing quite well. Only connecting to others 30 - 150km away though, nothing close. I may try a directional and tilt it a little [down] as a test. I have a great spot outside, but no way to protect the unit. If I *did* do a long run to it from indoor to outdoor, what would you guess would be a safe length to run to it. I am guessing the exposure will outweigh the cable degradation. I am hoping for about 20-25'. Any thoughts? Thanks in advance!
Nik - 7/16/2021
Hi Brad, 20-25' is no problem using LMR400.
Mike - 7/16/2021
Hi Nik, I am wondering what would be the results considering two scenarios. I have 6 miners, 1 in the middle and 5 in each direction at exactly 300 meters thus forming a pentagon. Scenario 1: I am located in the city and using a 4dbi antenna at a high elevation and the signal might be blocked by a few buildings Scenario 2: I am in a rural area that is completely flat (let’s assume) and have a 4dbi antenna as well but there is nothing blocking the signal while all being in the same formation at 300 meters. Which scenario would give me better gains and will the 8dbi antenna be better for the rural area or not for my specific situation? Thanks
Nik - 7/17/2021
Hi Mike, Neither of those will earn optimally, and there are probably better ways to deploy 6 miners. If you'd like to go through those in depth, book a consult session & we'll go through your entire scenario in order to maximize the (considerable) advantage of having 6 miners in hand.
Easy Helium Outdoor Antenna Upgrade – Tea and Tech Time - 7/26/2021
[…] What’s The Best Antenna For Your Helium Hotspot? A Rough Guide To Helium Hotspot Placement […]
Mitchell Walls - 7/26/2021
That directional you posted is ridiculous. I am witnessing people up to 39km through hundreds of tree and buildings. Only downside is a rarely but annoying get invalid witnesses for nearer people but I'll take seeing 20 people versus 3.
Nik - 7/26/2021
Agree, it was one of my early installs before I had a better idea of how to do this. Glad you're getting plenty of witnesses!
Jodi - 8/2/2021
Hi Nik, Thank you so much for all the amazing posts. I am about to mount an antenna on my unused chimney in the suburbs (flat terrain/1 story houses). I bought a 3dbi and a 5.8db antenna (to test) + an lmr400 cable to run down my chimney. I also bought a lightning arrester and a #10 AWG ground wire. I am keeping the miner inside as it gets up to 100 degrees in the summer here. After reading more about the HNTenna, I feel like I should just get it. If I do, I will need a new coax and lightning arrester (different connections) and a new mount. Can you recommend a mount/pole? Haven't found much on the internet. Lastly, the HNTenna links in this article are broken. It seems hntenna.com has updated their URLs.
Nik - 8/2/2021
Thanks, I'll get those links updated! The outdoor HNTenna comes with a mount. I'd test the antennas you have first, get a baseline, see if you're happy with it. Location & elevation are way more important than antennas. :)
Can I Get A Witness? - One Man's Search - 8/4/2021
[…] This helps explain why in many cases, when you get that fancy super high gain antenna, your valid witnesses disappear. So what antenna should you buy? […]
Greg Guadagnoli - 8/6/2021
Hi Nik, thanks so much for all your work, this is an amazing resource. The general principle of higher gain means lower angle is making sense, but the way I'm looking at it makes it appear to me that for an antenna 50 feet up, the 45º band of a 4dBi hits everything from the ground on up starting at about 124 feet out, and and 8dBi (25º) hits it at about 235 feet out. I see how that's a huge difference when you look at them relatively, but in practice wouldn't you only be missing out hotspots that are within that first 235 feet with the 8dBi? What am I missing? Thanks for your help.
Nik - 8/6/2021
You're not missing much there, although every antenna's gain pattern is different; check their datasheet for the antenna to make sure. The other thing that'll cause problems is higher gain antennas will put you on the wrong side of the RSSI/SNR curve. More on that here.
Gary - 8/8/2021
Hey Nik! So we finally got out helium antenna up. We are using the HNTenna you suggested. How long does it take to notice a difference. It hasn't been 24 hours yet and I would describe myself as a patient person, but in this case I'm having anxiety lol. We had 4 witnesses before when we had it installed at the window sill. We still have 4 witnesses but lost 2 of the old witnesses to the south of us and gained 2 more. So we are still at 4 witnesses. I am thinking of going with a higher decibel antenna of this doeant work out for us. If so I am wondering if we could sell this one. You interested? Lol. How important is location NSEW relative to your hotspots installing above roof? Just curious. Should I give this antenna more time and see what happens? It was a pain outing up there, but I don't mind talking it down if I have to. Thanks again!
Nik - 8/8/2021
Hi Gary, give it more time. I'd give it a week. Your witness list only builds when you beacon, which only happens once or twice every 24 hours. You want enough data points to make good decisions, and one or two beacons is less than optimal. Stick with it. :)
Michael - 8/9/2021
Your posts on this stuff are really easy to understand. I'm taking your advice (from our email conversation and from hours of reading this weekend) to buy the HNTenna and am planning on purchasing a somewhat-short cable (probably around 30 inches) from USA Coax. Just using your advice and moving my antenna outside, I'm noticing a slight increase in rewards (~$2-$4 daily). With the new 3 dBi antenna and cable coming, I can only imagine those numbers will go up again. Thanks for all the help you do for this community!!
Gary - 8/9/2021
Thanks Nik! You're right on, I have 8 witnesses now so I'm pretty happy with that so far! Thank you so much for your helping appreciate it. You definitely know your stuff man!
Gary - 8/9/2021
Hey Nik! Now I have to just set up my other miners and I'm good to go. I already have a good location for them. Thanks again!
Nik - 8/9/2021
Super, glad it's working for ya Gary. Rock on!
Jack Schnepel - 8/10/2021
Gary, your comment was exactly what I was looking for. I just set my 8dbi antenna up 23.5ft. I am so anxious to get my miner to actually be mining. I'm glad I wasn't the only anxious one
So this is probably a stupid question but I don’t wanna buy the wrong thing lol. My indoor HNTenna just came today. Do I need to buy a N-male to RP-SMA cable for this? And could I possible get a link for reference to which one I need? Thanks in advance!
Nik - 8/13/2021
No prob. You don't need an N-male for it. Take a look at the antenna connection, then compare it to the images on this page. Make sure you also know the connection on your hotspot, then order a cable accordingly. USACoax does good work.
Rya - 8/14/2021
Hey Nik - I tried checking out the recommended antennas from Hntenna but the links only land on the homepage. Is the 3 dbi antenna what you are recommending, or is it another product not currently available?
Nik - 8/15/2021
Hi Ryan, the 3 dBi antenna is what I recommend. Rock on!
Alex - 8/16/2021
Nik, as everyone had already stated, it's great learning from you. I bought that HNTenna, the 3db cone one. I plan on securely fastening it atop a cypress tree, like a star. It will be about 60ft above the ground. The only problem is, my box will have to be at the bottom of the tree, about 50' below. I saw your posts about "don't worry about the antenna", and "keep is as close as you can". I just will have to use about 50' of cable (LMR400,600,900 :) ). My question is, with the db drop of the cable length, and the antenna only being a 3db one, will I be able to squeeze enough DB out of that antenna to do good? Or, do I purchase 5-6db antenna, and have the final value around 3db. Thanks.
Nik - 8/17/2021
Alex, it's a good question and I'm not sure of the answer. How are you bringing power & ethernet to the enclosure at the base of the tree? Can you use PoE to get that enclosure up much higher, thereby decreasing the antenna cable run? Please keep us posted on this as I'm pretty darn interested in the answer. One thing to keep in mind is that the OG miners do really well with just 28.2 dBi, so as long as you can end up with that or more, you're likely to be fine. If you're not sure on calcs, check out this page on Cable Loss & EIRP.
Alex - 8/17/2021
I will be being power and eth to the base. I cannot climb the tree to get it any closer to the antenna. I might need help with the math.
Alex - 8/17/2021
I just cannot climb that tree, its too full, and no branches to climb. Ill bring power and internet to it. I guess I could go POE, but that is not necessary. I might need help with the math.
Nik - 8/17/2021
How are you getting the antenna up it?
Alex - 8/17/2021
So, lol, an interesting idea I had was to take five 10 foot conduit plastic pipes, put them all together, and start at the base of the tree and just go through all the tree branches until it popped up over the top. Worked flawlessly. I’d post a picture if I could. Next, I will use LMR600, and thread it through the tube, tie some 550 cord to the end. Hook the antenna up, pull the 550 though and secure the cable to the ensure the antenna stays put. So far, so good.
Alex - 8/17/2021
I sent you a picture on discord, Helium-Antennas
Nik - 8/18/2021
Got it, posted here for reference. Now I see why it'd be hard to climb that tree. :) 
Frank Oskar - 8/19/2021
Hi Nik, I have purchased and installed HNTenna. I have two miners and they are 1.4 km apart. Here is my situation and could you please let me know your thoughts on below? 08/12-08/18: Miner A - Bobcat Cable: LMR 400, 20' long Location: On the roof Antenna: 6 dbi Miner B - Bobcat Cable: in stock, 4dbi Location: Inside the house, 2nd floor Antenna: 4 dbi Miner A and B could witness each other and beacons did not have any issue, also had mining rewards. 08/18-08/19: Miner A - Bobcat Cable: LMR 400, 20' long Location: On the roof Antenna: 6 dbi Miner B - Bobcat Cable: LMR 400, 15' long Location: Inside the the attic Antenna: HNTenna Issue: Miner A sent beacon and miner B witnessed it, but beacons are invalid: "witness_rssi_below_lower_bound" Miner B sent beacon and miner A witnessed it, but beacons are invalid: "witness_rssi_below_lower_bound" Another thing to add (08/18-08/19): Miner B's beacon was witnessed three times by miner which was 16km away without any issue.
Nik - 8/19/2021
Hi Frank, Check over on this post regarding Witnesses & RSSI issues, it'll help explain what's happening with your 2 hotspots. Love the detail!
Eoin McLoughlin - 8/20/2021
I have a location up 60 metres in a church in Dublin. Dublin being a relatively flat City and the fact that there are only two other hotspots within a 1 km radius I think I should go for an a TBI but what would you think? Rf sims say 174 potential witnesses with 8.0 and 170 with 3.0.
Nik - 8/20/2021
If you're up high you should usually get a lower gain antenna, more like 3 than 8. What's a TBI?
David - 8/20/2021
This is super helpful by the way, thanks for making it easy to digest on a subject I am clueless about. Sounds like your recommendation for me would be to stick with the stock antenna, let me know if that is right! My miner would be indoors (can't get it outside sadly) on the 14th floor of a highly populated city (Oakland, CA). Originally I was leaning towards a 5.8 dbi antenna, but now I have concerns since their are so many tall buildings in the area.
How These Accessories Can Impact Your Helium Network Coverage – Parley Labs - 8/20/2021
[…] Antennashttps://gristleking.com/antennas-for-helium/https://unsealed4x4.com.au/picking-the-right-uhf-antenna-for-your-4×4/ Cables and Connectorshttps://www.spo-comm.de/en/blog/know-how/what-is-the-difference-between-sma-and-rp-smahttps://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/cable/coaxperf.html FCC Regulationshttps://transition.fcc.gov/oet/ea/presentations/files/oct07/Oct_07-Basics_of_Unlicensed_Trans-JD.pdfhttps://www.multitech.com/support/resolutionid/5086522 https://afar.net/tutorials/fcc-rules/ Tagged Accessories, Antenna, Coverage, Helium, Improvements, LoRaWAN […]
Joseph - 8/20/2021
after reading your article i have been doing quite a bit of research. i really appreciate the time you put in to writing this up. i have a sensecap on the way. i am trying to figure out what antenna to order because there is not a lot of hotspots in my area (Rockwall, TX) the simulations are with 30 foot LMR 400 at 1.2 loss, 30 feet in the air on the roof of my house, then i tried various dbi in the simulation. the only one that seems to perform at all is 12dbi. i didn’t even want the antenna up this high because it’s a rent house and max with sensecap is 9dbi. it appears from the from the elevation experiments in google maps that there is a 20 foot elevation gain before i get to the lake in any line of site path I try to outline. it seems like directional may not be an option because of the elevation gain and because I can really only get up about 25 foot at the most, that’s my roof peak it basically looks like i’m blocked from all of the hotspot clusters on the other side of the lake due to this 20 foot elevation gain any ideas if this looks accurate? should i just start with a 5.8 dbi omni and see what happens? (geo/address is not my address, but close enough) https://beta.hotspotrf.com/map/?share=81689db12bba4656ac6716e3a413b5b1 https://beta.hotspotrf.com/map/?share=df4867603c6f40f7b33a6f1b8bdedde9 https://beta.hotspotrf.com/map/?share=1a1c78bd7a854777ad89c607d5a67096 https://beta.hotspotrf.com/map/?share=cee96b2feaa149d59718065b7f627f17 Google Maps Elevation Experiments https://imgur.com/a/6Wycsmq I have posted in the sensecap discord and the helium subreddit and i’m unable to get a response . i’m really trying to learn and research here and your articles have helped me so much
Nik - 8/20/2021
Hi Joseph, if you're blocked by elevation, your best bet is to find another location; the antenna won't make a difference. I wouldn't give the simulations too much weight (they're useful, but not the gospel), and I definitely wouldn't use a 12 dBi antenna. Let me know if that helps you.
Nik - 8/20/2021
Hi David, yep, stick with stock to start off. Use an HNTenna indoor antenna if you want to spend money and upgrade, but start with stock.
Joseph - 8/20/2021
Thank you so much for the response. I’m at a loss for another location unless i was to work out a deal where someone takes 70% of my earnings. Do you think a lower dbi antenna would get up and over the elevation without raising my antenna above 25 feet when the elevation gain seems to be 20 feet and it raises that 20 feet in a distance of 1.93 miles from me?
Nik - 8/20/2021
Probably not, but you can try. RF can be weird. Still, I'd focus my efforts on finding another location. Location is 80% of your earnings.
David - 8/23/2021
Hi Nik, My Bobcat is due to arrive any day now and there is a lot of info floating our there... I like what you say and have read most all your posts; a lot of information, most beyond my understanding. Is there a placement optimization map available? Some map that allows me to input my address and based on all parameters, advise where to place my antenna and how high, etc? Is there a service that can help? I know a lot of people who but miners and keep buying more ad new equipment, trying to optimize their initial investment and I rather do this one, and right. Open to suggestions. Thanks, David
Edward - 8/23/2021
Hi, What antenna do you recommend for a 5 story building (60 feet) in nyc?
Nik - 8/23/2021
Hi David, The best tool I've found for placement optimization is Helium.Vision, but it's not automatic at finding the best spot. I offer consulting that'll walk you through the strategy side as well as helping you find the best spot locally, you can read more about that here. I think you're on the right track aiming to get it done right the first time, keep going!
Nik - 8/23/2021
Outdoor HNTenna from hntenna.com
Mark - 8/23/2021
Quick question: I recently upgraded my antenna to the 3dbi outdoor HNTenna. Which antenna do I set inside my bobcat? I chose custom antenna and set it to 3dbi but wondering if I should have gone another way. Would love your thoughts.
Don - 8/24/2021
I have an 9 story office building in a suburban city right next to a shopping center with many business located nearby. There are two other tall buildings across the street, each a few hundred feet away. I have some cell towers on my flat roof over the top-floor mechanical room below but there is about 150 feet between the two cell tower structures. I am planning to put up a Helium 915 antenna attached to the concrete side of the building right between the two cell bundles. The Bobcat 300 will be right inside the building within about 30 feet maximum cable run. What antenna of your recommendation would be the best for this relatively flat area with trees, stores, houses, and other tall/short buildings nearby and below? I can even easily see the nearby airport from the roof. And do you recommend anything better than the Bobcat 300?
Michel - 8/24/2021
Hey, Nick. I have a newly installed hotspot, indoors/behind a thick glass window (no access for outdoors option ), around 70m high, clear line of sight. I got a fiberglass 5dBi antenna for this one, in 24h i got 31 witnesses. But i'm wondering if it would be wiser to upgrade later with a 3dBi? i'm afraid the glass would attenuate the signal considerably for a smaller antenna, would love to get your opinion on this one :) Another question, just wondering if installing a fiberglass antenna indoors is somehow bad for health ^^
Nik - 8/24/2021
Hi Michael, sounds like your install is fine for the constraints you have. I'd probably try a 3 dBi, but I like testing things. As far as a fiberglass antenna indoors being bad for health, check out this post on RF emissions. I'm not sure if there's anything inherently unhealthy in a fiberglass antenna, but I'm definitely not a medical professional. :)
Nik - 8/24/2021
Hi Don, I'd use the HNTenna (hntenna.com) for that deployment; urban deployments with lots of reflected signals are where they'll usually do best. As far as miners, they're all pretty similar, though the Bobcats are apparently sensitive to heat, so make sure it's in a shaded/cooler place.
Nik - 8/24/2021
Hey Mark, you did the right thing; "Custom Antenna" is fine. :)
john Horlieca - 8/27/2021
the question i have is would a multi-directional 12 dbi antenna work 10 feet above a 2 story house? and how long before i see an increase in gain
Nik - 8/28/2021
Hi John, While it'll work to send out RF, most of those transactions will be invalid due to being likely to break the current RSSI/SNR curve Helium uses to evaluate signals. Take a look at this post on Witnessing to help understand that.
Johannes - 8/29/2021
Hello, thanks for the awesome guide. Quick Question, rural Austria all the next hotspots are around 25 km away. The Miner is on a high Building (30 meters), topography is rather flat also no high buildings on the way. What antenna would you suggest? Miner is Bobcat.
Nik - 8/29/2021
Hi Johannes, I'd go with the stock Bobcat antenna mounted on a metal surface or a low gain antenna like the HNTenna. With clear Line of sight and plenty of elevation you don't need high gain.
VM - 8/30/2021
Hi Nik, many thanks for Your precious informations! I need an advice and a help: I live in a suburban flat area. Nearest hotspots are in 9 - 15 km distance. Waht antenna dBi gain do You recommend? Is there some Eropean distributor ar manufacturer for HNTenna ? Are there some alternatives for multi-polarised antennas? Greeting from Europe!
Nik - 8/30/2021
Hi VM, as long as you have clear line of sight (no mountains/hills blocking it) you should be fine with a lower gain (4 dBi or lower) antenna. HNTenna ships to Europe, so you should be fine there. Don't get too wrapped up if you can't get one of theirs though, as a standard vertically polarized antenna will usually do almost as well. Remember, the most important thing is location, then elevation. Antennas just don't matter that much.
mic - 8/30/2021
Good antenna! But I use the antenna for miner from RFAreas. Good manufacturer. And I guess that thier antennas are the best in the world.
Nik - 8/30/2021
All the top manufacturers make excellent antennas, glad you found one that works well for you!
Pat - 9/3/2021
Hi Nik, I need an advice if you don't mind ofcourse I live in on the Hill to be fair with clear line of sight. I've got another helium miners 500 meters under me. I choose 8 dbi antenna but i guess its to strong because is not connecting with them. Any advice? My antenna is on the roof
Nik - 9/3/2021
Sure, try a lower gain antenna.
Moh - 9/4/2021
Hi Nik, thanks a lot for your great article. My city is really crowded (Beirut, Lebanon) and it will probably be filled with hotspots sooner than later. I plan to put my antenna at the rooftop. Highest point. Should I get the 5.8 dbi one (fiberglass) ? Or get a lower gain antenna (from hntenna) or just stick with the original ? Problem with the original is that I am going to need an extension to protect the miner from the rain/high temp/... so it will be a few meters far from the antenna, which cannot be covered by the stock antenna (4 dbi). Fyi: my building is 15 floors tall (around 55 meters tall). What do you suggest? Moh.
Nik - 9/4/2021
Hi Moh, I'd use the HNTenna there; they usually do really well in urban environments.
krpk - 9/11/2021
What to do if I am in flat area but the closest hotspots are more than 10km away in all directions. Which antenna would you recommend?
Nik - 9/11/2021
Get your antenna high enough to have a clear Line of Sight to other antennas. I'd use the HNTenna, but any of the good name brands will be fine.
carlos castillo - 9/11/2021
hello sir, thanks for all this valuable info. so, when would you use a 15db antenna? I purchased a 12 and a 16db and plan to install them on poles on top of roof at total of 35 feet or so in Orlando subs, in florida where there are no mountains. I figured it would help by reaching some hotspots in down town as well, some 5-10 miles away, giving me an edge on reach. I ran the simulator on hotspot RF and it shows that the higher gain antenna would reach more hot spots with higher db antenna. What are your thoughts? thank you!
Nik - 9/11/2021
Hi Carlos, in the US you'd never use a 15 dBi antenna; it breaks FCC limits. 9 dBi is the max. With clear Line of Sight you can go hundreds of km, so a high gain antenna doesn't give you any advantage with only 5-10 miles to cover. Hotspot RF has said they're only accurate to 60% +/- 20%, and with the network changing so rapidly it's probably even less reliable.
adam L - 9/13/2021
Great Article. I'm considering setting up a helium hotspot in Hawaii. I live on the 10th floor of a 20floor+ building overlooking a canal and it's pretty open. Not sure if I can just purchase a stock bobcat and have a decent amount of coverage.
Nik - 9/13/2021
Right on Adam, that should work. Try putting a small metal sheet (think cookie tray) under the Bobcat antenna, that seems to increase performance. Keep us posted on how it goes!
Todd - 9/15/2021
Hey Nik, generally speaking is it better to point an Antenna through a wall (close to it) or set it up next to a window? 2nd story house upstairs bedroom placement. CAN'T do outside. Trying the 4 dbi bobcat and will soon try the 5.8 and 8 dbi rakwireless as well as the 3 dbi indoor hntenna. Subbed to yer youtube and read a lot from you but missed this question above. I can get about 18 inches higher than the window if I setup next to the wall (would be close to ceiling). Should antennas be placed closest to wall or locate a foot back from it? Will report back on all antennas once I get some insight from you and complete all 4 antenna tests.
Nik - 9/15/2021
Depends on window and wall type. Newer reflective windows can be a bear to get through. Give the signal some space to breathe; a foot off or more.
Luke - 9/15/2021
I hope you can help - I need a cable to connect my bobcat 300 to my RAK 5.8 antenna to get it up on the roof of my house. I can not seem to find anywhere selling LMR400 cables with the correct connectors, which I believe are N Female (into the miner) & RP-SMA Male (into the RAK antenna)??
Nik - 9/15/2021
Check with USACoax.com, and call ‘em if you don’t see it on their site.
Louis - 9/15/2021
Hi Nik, Great article ! I am looking more into the type of antenna i will need. My username is unique ceramic deer, it is almost done syncing up. Given my suburban location, with barely any high buildings, do you reccomend using the stock antenna, but simply setting it up on a really high pole ? How much better would a 2 DBI ( stock antenna ) up high be VS say the HNTenna 915 ? Thank you in advance !
Nik - 9/15/2021
Hi Louis, I'd test the stock antenna and get it up as high as you can. The HNTenna will probably do a little better, but it won't be magic.
Jason Williams - 9/19/2021
Hello, I’m somewhat confused on which antenna would be the best for the area that I’m in. My hotspot names are, lively foggy salamander , hidden champagne camel. Both locations are in a Neighborhood, flat with just trees. The closest hotspot is 3km to 6km away. The highest I would be able to get the antennas would be about 9ft. On the ledge of house.
Nik - 9/19/2021
If lots of trees you may benefit from a 5.8, at least until PoCv11 comes. Otherwise, see if you can get it higher and roll with a lower gain antenna.
Andy Margesson - 9/23/2021
Hi Nik, I had a consultant come and asses the installation of an antenna on the roof of the 4 storey building I live in. The issue he has is accessing the roof as it's 25m high. I can get into the eaves and install the HNtenna there, but would there be a significant loss of signal through the roof tiles? Thanks
Scott - 9/23/2021
Great article! Thanks so much for making it. I live in SUPER flat Florida, but there are Pine and Oak trees everywhere between all houses and neighborhoods (no tall buildings or geography), if I can get an antenna on top of my roof, but probably not quite over the top of the trees what would be your recommendation for my Bobcat miner? The beginning of your article makes it sound like I should go higher, up to 9dbi. Does that make sense considering all I have to clear is mostly just the tops of trees? Thanks again!
Nik - 9/23/2021
Hi Andy, get the thing as high as you can and if it's below the roofline, away from the side of the building. Without seeing your situation it's hard to advise, but...the best you can do is the best you can do.
Nik - 9/23/2021
Flattest state in the Union! If all you've got is the tops of trees for miles around, getting signal out will be hard. A 9 dBi will help a bit, but dense vegetation really dampens the signal. It's kind of like fighting a forest fire with a garden hose: It'll help save the house, but it won't solve the problem. Better off getting it as high as possible or finding a better location.
sala mouna - 9/28/2021
Great article I will need the 8 DBI antenna for my case but the device is not here yet
Gio - 9/30/2021
I live on a hill over looking all of Los Angeles. Behind me is more hills. In front of me is city lights. Less than 10 miles away is downtown Los Angeles There are many miners in my immediate vicinity, but I am one of the highest in elevation. How would a yagi work for me? Line of sight is great, would you advise against a 9dbi? What would work best in this situation?
Nik - 10/1/2021
Hi Gio, stick with a low gain omni like the HNTenna. A yagi will just limit your options.
Arturo - 10/1/2021
Hey Nik, GREAT article. I'm about to setup my fiirst hotspot, it's in a location 15km far from the nearest hotspot but with a great elevation in a mountain and with direct sight to it (and the whole city). Do you think the patch antenna would reach this distance?
Nik - 10/1/2021
Hi Arturo, Yep, a patch antenna will easily reach that, but an omni will also easily reach it. I'd go with an omni. Cheers, Nik
Damjan - 10/4/2021
Hi Nik.. my hot spot is in the forest where I have a weekend .. I have 500m to the sea ... the nearby town is 3km away .. across the sea I have towns that are 45km away .. it makes sense to have a hot spot and what would I need to reach hot points I am from Europe Slovenia Croatia
Nik - 10/5/2021
Depends on clear line of sight across the water. It may work well if your hotspot can "see" those other hotspots. If you're surrounded by dense forest it'll be much more challenging.
Steven Smith - 10/6/2021
Hey, Nik. Any changes to what you would suggest for antenna with PoC11 coming?
Nik - 10/6/2021
Nope. I'll stick with the HNTenna for all my setups.
Ash - 10/8/2021
Hi Nik, Thank you for your advice and well written article. I have the (915) 902-928MHz from HNTENNA. What cable do you recommend I use to connect the antenna to my bobcat? The pin size looks different than the stock antenna. Do I need an adapter? Appreciate your help! Have a great weekend!
Nik - 10/10/2021
Depending on length you'll probably want LMR400 or LMR240. Use the 400 for anything over, say, 10'. Check your connectors here, then order the correct cable & fittings from USACoax.com. https://gristleking.com/helium-hotspot-reference/ Should be RP-SMA male to N-type male. Always double check! :)
Giovanni Ghinelli - 10/11/2021
Hi Nik, Thanks a lot for the article, really helpful. I just have a specific doubt about the myner I just installed. I live in Modena, a relatively small city located in the plains in northern Italy, and I have positioned the myner at about 20 meters high (on the top floor of the building). I set up the myner (Sensecap with 2.8 Dbi antenna) about a week ago and I was wondering about the best outdoor antenna to buy (to date I have the myner and antenna inside the house positioned in front of a small window open all day) so I can install it directly on the roof. In your opinion, 5.8 Dbi is better or you can achieve better performance with the 8.0 Dbi? Thank you very much, Giovanni
Nik - 10/11/2021
Hi Giovanni, in a city with elevation you'll want the antenna to be as low dBi as possible in order to get maximum local coverage. I'd got with an HNTenna, but any of the lower gain antennas (4 dBi and under) will work.
Albert - 10/12/2021
Hi Nik, Great articles you post! I have 5 spots I just setup this last week. One of them is called Wobbly Glass Perch. My question is this, can I run a cable from the device (Rak V2) to just the antenna to place outdoors? Perhaps the HNTenna or an outdoor antenna? Hope that makes sense. I can't place the Rak outside, so I have a 9db antenna attached to the outside of my spare bedroom about 15 meters up from the ground with a decent clear view. I have an HOA here, so I'm trying to be utilize as much concealment as possible as well as gaining the best coverage. Thank you!
Nik - 10/12/2021
Sure, use antenna cable to connect the Hotspot and the antenna. You can buy that from USACoax.com, make sure you get the right connectors and you'll be fine.
Paulito - 10/12/2021
Hi Nik- thanks for all your efforts, you are a gentleman and a scholar! Would using a mast on top of a residential roof (to get more elevation) pose any issue with it being a lightning hazard? Do you take that into consideration at all or are there any measures that should be taken to reduce the risk?
Nik - 10/13/2021
Hi Paulito, I use a mast on my house. It's more lightning risk, but for me I'm fine with that. Use a lightning arrestor to mitigate the risk to your equipment.
Stefan Hochstatter - 10/16/2021
Hi Nick, I live in the suburbs outside of Milwaukee. There are three very poorly performing hotspots within a mile of me (one is being relayed). And then there are a ton of hotspots between seven and 10 miles to the south. Since most of the hotspots are that far away, does the low db antenna still make sense? Or should I move into medium gain? I’m planning to mount it on an 8 foot pole on the peak of my roof, which will put it above all of the other roofs. I am at a somewhat higher elevation than anything south or east and somewhat lower than anything north and west but it’s very gradual. So it seems like I have a particularly good location to hit hotspots to the south where all of them seem to be. Thanks for the advice! And great article.
Nik - 10/16/2021
Hi Stefan, sounds you'll have clear lines of sight, so you'll probably be best served with a lower gain (3-6) antenna. 7-10 miles is no problem for LoRa at our output power & spreading factor.
PabloS - 10/18/2021
My miner is on the way but I’m unsure if I should preorder the RAK 5.8dbi antenna or if I should just use the stock MNTD antenna. There is a miner down the street from me “Brilliant Honey Beetle” but I can’t seem to tell what antenna he’s using. By my location, do you think I’d be able to benefit from a 5.8dbi?
Nik - 10/18/2021
Depends on where you are. In the US, a 5.8 is a safe bet, though the clear line of sight your antenna will have to other miners is far more important than what antenna you buy. In the UK/EU, you'll need a 5.8 dBi minimum due to the lower output power of the radio.
Michalis - 10/19/2021
hi buddy and congrats on the article. i live in Cyprus (EU) and i placed one of my miners to a friends house which is located on a slope. from the roof of the house you can see the whole town. basically at 180 degrees you can see the whole town. the rest of the 180 degrees basically you see the mountain. do you think that a Directional Antenna would suit better in this situation? thanks alot!!
Nik - 10/19/2021
Thanks Michalis. How far from the town are you? I'd look at a slightly higher gain omni; never hurts to cover extra area, especially if that coverage might one day be useful.
Salvatore Rainone Jr. - 10/19/2021
Hey great article! My question to you is, what antenna should i use for my set up. My miner is located in Queens, NYC and its about 20-22 feet up right now in my attic. I would like to move it to my roof on top of my chimney. I have a bobcat miner and i use the stock 4bi antenna. Should i just get the outdoor enclosure kit and use the stock antenna or should i buy a different one? Please let me know if you need anymore info!
Nik - 10/19/2021
I'd get the antenna up high and try and leave the Bobcat indoors where it's temp controlled. Probably worth it to get an aftermarket antenna; I like the HNTenna, but it'll also depend on cable length.
Salvatore Rainone Jr. - 10/20/2021
If i leave bobcat in my attic i can run the antenna cable about 20-30feet to the top of my chimney. What dbi do you recommend?
Nik - 10/20/2021
Depends where in the world you are and what cable you use. LMR400 and the US? HNTenna. Outside the US? 5.8 - 8 dBi omni from any of the reputable brands.
Salvatore Rainone Jr. - 10/20/2021
Im in the south part of queens in NYC. Lot of miners in NYC and i am basically on the water so everything is elevated above me. I was planning on getting outside setup for bobcat miner so i dont need a 30ft cable because there will be cable loss. If its better to keep in my attic i will do that and run the wire to my roof and mount an antenna. I just would like to know what dbi is good for me. thanks
Nik - 10/20/2021
Well, to be straight with you, anything in NYC is going to be a tough row to hoe, and the antenna won't make that much difference.
Salvatore Rainone Jr. - 10/20/2021
oh ok. Maybe i should just buy the bobcat enclosure and put it on my roof with the stock 4bi antenna. its 22 feet up right now but on my chimney it would be 30 feet so that should make a difference.
Nik - 10/20/2021
You can def try it. Elevation usually helps, but location is what drives earnings. If you're locally overcrowded, location changes of 8' usually won't matter.
Salvatore Rainone Jr. - 10/20/2021
well if its not gonna change significantly then i rather not spend the time and money to go 10 feet higher. My second bobcat isnt set up but the location i want to put it at has the router in basement.. so i need to figure out how to get miner high up without moving router.
Why work too hard? Make your assets pay for your livelihood! - 10/26/2021
[…] Here is a link from a guy, that shares more specific information about helium antena placement . […]
Kelly Smith - 11/2/2021
My question to you is, what antenna should I use for my setup. My miner is located in Queens, NYC, and it is about 20–22 feet up right now in my attic. I would like to move it to my roof on top of my chimney. I have a bobcat miner and I use the stock 4bi antenna. Should I just get the outdoor enclosure kit and use the stock antenna or should I buy a different one? Please let me know if you need any more info!
Nik - 11/2/2021
Hi Kelly, the antenna won't make much difference; Queens is pretty overcrowded. The *best* antenna will probably be an HNTenna, but again, the local overcrowding is the big problem. You'll be far better off moving well outside the city.
Anna - 11/3/2021
Hey ? I live in a hilly town (20 min south of Seattle) that’s not fully covered but has a couple hexagons that have 2-3 hotspots. What antenna would you recommend for one that’ll be at the top of a 3 story house, on top of a hill that overlooks the main town ?
Nik - 11/3/2021
Hi Anna, I'd go with an HNTenna.
2GBLT - 11/3/2021
DO HIGH TENSION POWER LINES DISRUPT THE SIGNAL. ACROSS THE STREET FROM MY HOUSE ABOUT 200' AWAY I HAVE THESE MONSTROSITIES - 100' TALL TOWERS - 230000 VOLT TRANSMISSION LINES - MY ROOF HEIGHT IS ABOUT 20' - WAS PLANNING 20' POLE & MOUNT OUTDOOR ANTENNA AT TOP - SO ROGHLY 40' - WHICH WOULD LEAVE THE TOWER/POWERLINES 60' ABOVE AND ROUGHLY 200' AWAY FROM MY HOUSE
Nik - 11/4/2021
Good question. I wouldn't think so, but it's possible. Get the antenna high and you'll probably be fine.
Serge - 11/4/2021
In a one story suburban house, surrounded by many similar houses with same surroundings . Highest point is chimney ~25' above ground. Trees 30-80' tall about 30-40' away from the chimney pretty much on all sides, and many trees between neighborhood houses. Have a few hotspots (all SyncroBits) with stock 3dB antennae to set up in the area. I'm thinking a good start would be atop a pole attached to chimney (on each house)...? But what length pole? Should 10' be enough? 20'? Higher? Higher dB antennae, perhaps? TIA
Nik - 11/5/2021
Get 'em as high as you reasonably can. :)
Shawn - 11/8/2021
Just got my Linxdot miner today. I'm in the foothills of the Westside of Colorado Springs, with a view of the entire city. I have 2 questions: 1. Do I need a Patch Antenna? There are dozens of Hotspots I can witness less than 5 km away. 2. Will running my hotspot on wifi (after it's synced of course) cause any reduction in mining rewards?
Nik - 11/8/2021
Shawn, you don't need a patch antenna, and running your hotspot on WiFi just makes it more like the hotspot will drop connection and miss out on rewards. Keep it on ethernet cable if you can.
Patrick Fitzpatrick - 11/9/2021
Hey Nik, Thanks for you awesome articles. Clever and humorous, always easy and great to read. I’ve been debating and reading and yours seems to give the best advice. I was even shocked to see Petite Menthol Leopard I’m your article which is close to me. Question is: My Syncro.Bit miner only gets .01 HNT a day. My location is Napa in the foothills with a forested area. I know a antenna will most likely help. I’m thinking a 8-9 dbi would help my situation most right? I’m guessing if I get it outside on my 2 story home roof it would allow better allow Site of Vision from trees and hilly area. Would you then recommend the 915Mhz / 8 dBi gain Omni LoRa Antenna with 20ft Cable or the antenna that Syncro.Bit sells on their website? Does it make sense to buy the antenna on the Syncro website for it’s the same brand? Also I wanted to inquire about Helium Network Jobs you mentioned as well if there are any opportunities.
Nik - 11/9/2021
Hi Patrick, the most important thing will be to get the antenna up high with a clear line of sight to other hotspots. The brand/dBi generally doesn't matter, just try and keep it a lower dBi (5.8 is more than enough.)
Matteo - 11/11/2021
Guys, I have a question, I am going to place a hotspot in a very tall building - in which I have an office- in the center of a very big city -Madrid, Spain-. It is 60m- 200feet, and I’ll be able to place it outside because we have a terrace. My question is if I should go with an 8dbi, or a 3dbi. I am concerned that an 8 or even a 5dbi are to flat and don’t reach the hotspots that are directly below us (as it is a building literally located in the center). My scale is 1.00 as there are no hotspots in the “dead zone”. Thanks for the advice!
Nik - 11/11/2021
Hi Mateo, since you're in the EU and radio power output is lower, I'd go with a 5.8.
Tommy - 11/11/2021
Is an omni-directional antenna actually omni-directional? Read that theyre not but god knows how i could direct them?
Nik - 11/11/2021
Hi Tommy, "Omni-directional" is more of a guideline; they shoot out radiation in *pretty much* all directions. You could direct them with a metal shield, and companies sell that, but there's no great reason to.
Robin - 11/11/2021
Nik, This article is amazing and your attention to quality and detail is superb. I ordered my FinestraMiner today for my suburban area, but can’t find info online if anyone has hooked up a HNTenna to it for boosted signal. Any experience monkeying with FinestraMiners? Thanks!
Nik - 11/11/2021
Hi Robin, I haven't had my hands on a Finestra, but it should work fine with any antenna. Enjoy!
Jochen - 11/12/2021
Hi Nik thanks for all the provided information. I am actually setting up my miner and was thinking about the antenna. Im in EU in a smaller City with smaller Hills and no Hex is attached at the moment. I will place it as high as possible and thinking about a 8 or 3db one. The next bigger City with the biggest connected Network is about 3 miles straight with a Hill inbetween. Any recommendation would bei appreciated. Kind regards Jo
Nik - 11/12/2021
Yo Jo! :). Probably an 8 for now since it's an EU hotspot pushing out much less power. PoCv11 may change all of this, so just be ready to adapt.
Robin - 11/12/2021
Thank you for being so helpful Nik, the one thing I am not sure was mentioned is whether or not it’s beneficial to use a metal antenna mast or a fiberglass antenna mast to reduce RF interferences? Thanks!!
Nik - 11/12/2021
Hi Robin, I'd go with a metal mast for durability. There's probably no appreciable RF performance difference for what we're doing. I've got clients with both options and either works well.
Vladimir - 11/12/2021
Hey nik, thank you for your information!!! I am living in a City 20 km away from Frankfurt (EU, Germany). In Frankfurt there are a lot of hexs. Between my City and Frankfurt there are no Hills, but there is another City, Offenbach with also many Hex(ca.30) .Offenbach is 13 km from my city. In my City there are 12 Hex. My spots are about 10 m high. Would you Take a 3dbi or 8 dbi Antenna. Any recommendation would be appreciated. I cant decide and the pocv11 makes the dessicion even more complicated. Sorry for my english and greetings Vladimir
Nik - 11/12/2021
Really hard to say for the Euro region. I'd try the 8 dBi. I don't think there's a great solution because the radio output is so low.
Siegfried mabanta - 11/12/2021
Hi Nik, Im a newbie for hotspot, please help as I no idea for the antenna range or dbi. But planning to buy a bobcat 300 with 4dbi stack antenna. My location is at a urban area with same height of houses and some small trees. Im seeing some hotspot devices near my area with a distance of at 20km and lowest is at 3km to my location. Can you recommend me the antenna i need to get more witnesses connected to my bobcat 300. Appreciate your help.
Nik - 11/12/2021
What part of the world are you in?
Matt - 11/12/2021
Have a SyncroBit stock in my attic now, I estimate 11m height. Planning to move it outside, but can't decide on chimney (which would allow a pretty tall pole, but is maybe 8m away from a tree on one side) or just at the roof peak at least 16m away from any trees but probably won't allow for a super tall pole. In the US so deciding on antenna (there's 3 different ones at the link, I presume you're talking the outdoor US 915 one, priced at $150?)
Daniel - 11/13/2021
I live in an apartment on the second floor… I have access to an outdoor balcony but my MNTD gold miner is currently in my window with the stock 2.3dbi antenna. There are trees and other buildings around and my building is on a hill probably 30-50 feet up from the road. There are two other hotspots within 2 km from me but my miner doesn’t detect them, and others are about 12-14km away. Should I buy a higher gain outdoor antenna and install it on my balcony? Is this a lost cause because of my location?
Nik - 11/13/2021
Hi Daniel, you're far better off finding a new location.
Nik - 11/13/2021
How much lower is the roof peak? I'd probably go there unless there's a 5m or more difference. LoRa likes some space around it. Also take into consideration what is behind that tree that you want to hit (in terms of hotspots.) Yes, the outdoor 915 is the one I use.
Matt - 11/13/2021
Nik, the chimney top is maybe half a meter taller than the peak of the roof. But with a huge lever arm for the chimney I could safely put up a pretty tall pole with the US 915 outdoor antenna on it. I doubt I could put up a 5m tall pole without cheesing off the neighbors though so it might only be like a 2m taller pole if I chose the chimney. Or I could cut down the tree.. Hehe
Nik - 11/13/2021
Tough call. What's the tree blocking as far as other hotspots?
Matt - 11/14/2021
I'd have to take a look, but it's definitely going to block at least 25 degrees in that direction (at least as far as direct LOS). It's "not far" from that tree. There are actually zero other hotspots directly blocked by that tree based on hotspotty, but that doesn't mean there won't be in the near future. Thinking of it, and ease of installation (because I'm going to have to hire someone to go on this roof, it's steep and I don't like heights to begin with), I may just do a short-ish™ pole with the antenna on it. Also, I see the HNTenna and notice it's only 3db gain. The region around us is pretty suburban, and I'd be shocked if another hotspot shows up within 500m of me. But if I look out our upper windows, besides a house or two in all directions, all I can see is trees beyond those houses. In total, visible (LOS) houses from my house is maybe 30 houses because the trees are so mature around here, not to mention we're bordered by a (forest) park. Should I consider going for a higher gain antenna in that case? I presume dipole of some kind? I mean, my best bet would be to put up a 30m tall pole, but...
Nik - 11/14/2021
Height will be more important than antenna. In a highly treed area RF at our freqs is generally hard, so elevation will be your best bet. PoCv11 should even out the playing field for everybody, but it also means it'l be harder to get actual useful gain out of an antenna.
Cathy - 11/15/2021
Great info. You seem like to like helping people. :) When I ordered my hot spot there were no others in my 'red zone'. However now, 5 mos later, there is one... however, there are also more now in my area overall and 3 in my 'sweet spot'. My question is I know the one in my red zone will cut into what mine earns but will the other ones in my sweet spot maybe make up for that? Asking b/c I do have a 'host' who is willing to let me place it at his house (none in his red zone) . Similar terrains, neighborhoods, homes, trees, and number of hot spots. I prefer it ay my house but not if having 1 in the red zone really does cut into rewards. Not hooked up yet... just got it. Thanks so much for your great info!!
Nik - 11/15/2021
Hi Cathy, check this post on HIP 17, it'll help you make an informed decision.
Antony - 11/15/2021
Hi Nik, or maybe someone know... I have a question about length of cable. I bought Bobcat and I need to buy outdoor antenna for miner, also cable for antenna with 40 meters length. 1) can miner work with 40 meters cable between antenna and miner 2) what type of Antenna I need 3) what type of cable I need
Heather McMahon - 11/15/2021
I live in a pretty secluded area with a couple of green hexes. Although they have no witnesses not too far from me. Woodsy area with some hills and lakes. I am trying to decide between a 5.8 DBI & 8 DBI this will go outside high near my roof. I am torn on which one I should get. There is a city with a ton of hexes and witnesses about 26 miles from me.
Uknown - 11/15/2021
Hi, I have ordered a bobcat 300 miner and I like to ask you about the antenna cable length. I understand that the length of the cable is 1 meter that comes with the miner. If I use a different antenna what is the maximum length of the cable I can use in order not to have a signal loss
Nik - 11/15/2021
Depends on the type of cable you use, read this.
Nik - 11/15/2021
5.8 will probably do well, just get it up high. Honestly there won't be a huge difference, especially after PoCv11 which levels out all radiated outputs. More on that here.
Nik - 11/15/2021
Yes, read this. Probably LMR 900.
Andrew Holman - 11/15/2021
Hi, thanks for the great info. I have a 5.8 antenna and was wondering if mounting it to a wall or in front of a window is best? This is on the 2nd story of my house. I do eventually plan to roof mount once I can get access. Also, I recently reinstalled the stock Rak wireless miner antenna too as I lost about 50% rewards for the week the 5.8 was connected and wall mounted. The unit with stock antenna was sitting in the window previously. Witnesses with the 5.8 dropped as well. Went from 13 to 8.
Matt B. - 11/15/2021
Hi Nik, I am trying to trouble shoot for my brother in the Austin Texas area. He has a nebra outdoor and is unfortunately a bit far north of the city in Leander Tx. I imagine it as if he is really far from other hot spots and wants to reach the others towards the city so based on what I read he probably wants a mid to high gain antenna pointed specifically in the direction of the city until the network grows out north closer to him. Would this be the right train of thought and do you have a recommendation on antenna ? Thanks
Nik - 11/15/2021
I'd stay away from high gain antennas and focus on finding a better location.
Lessons Learned From A Year Of Helium Deployments - Gristle King - A Guide to Helium - 11/15/2021
[…] 6 months into this, after writing the first few articles (the Rough Guide and the one on choosing an antenna specifically), I started getting phone calls from people needing help. At first it […]
MIke - 11/17/2021
Hello, everyone. I need your advice. I am currently using the 4db antenna from Bobcat (about 2m High) and am wondering whether a 5db omnidirectional antenna (https://www.wimo.com/de/18003-868) or another antenna would make sense. my location: Little Magenta Dolphin There are tall buildings around me Or does it make sense to put a 2nd antenna over a splitter in the backyard? My building is made of reinforced concrete
Matt B. - 11/17/2021
Not an option but appreciate your feed back. Austin Tx is a bit too dense with miners to find a "better" location . Were in the outskirts of town now so the goal is just to reach further distances. What antenna does best for that ?
Nik - 11/17/2021
A standard RAK 5.8 from Parley Labs or the HNTenna will do fine with clear line of sight.
Matt B. - 11/17/2021
Thanks Nik, I can't believe how many replies you've got on here! Do you have any material on understanding the need, if any, to ground these antennas outside on poles or in our case, a roof? Like, am I going to get hit by lightning and get the house burnt down?
Nik - 11/17/2021
Well, technically you should ground every antenna, though it's usually more to protect your device from static discharge and less about preventing/stopping a lightning strike. If you look at most antennas on buildings (not just Helium ones) you'll see that plenty of them aren't grounded. If your antenna is easily the highest thing around and you have lightning storms regularly I'd be more worried about it. Again, technically you should, in practice many don't.
Rene bartum - 11/18/2021
Thanks Nik for the great article! I was brought here by youtuber Anonymous Miner. I live in a city called Ocala, Florida. The city itself is pretty small considering Orlando, Florida is about 1 hour away. I used https://www.scadacore.com/ to help find elevations and line of sight. (Again thank you for all the information you placed above) I have 2 questions... 1) The goal is get to the highest elevation possible with no obstruction around? 2) There's probably a total of 10 hotspots in my area (compared to over 200+ in Orlando) Does the number of hotspots of witnesses reflect the amount of coins earned?
Nik - 11/18/2021
Yes to 1. For 2, less than 40 hotspots makes it harder to reliably witness enough beacons to earn consistently at higher rates. You earn more per witnessed beacon with less miners, but there are less opportunities to witness beacons.
Johnny - 11/22/2021
Hey gristle! I finally got my antenna up with 21 foot of lmr 400 and the HNTenna. 3dbi you recommended. I reported the dbi in the app accounting for the loss for the cable but not the arrester( another .4? I assume ). Is it detrimental if I don’t change it. I was always curious if what will happen if you report in the app incorrectly. Thank you !
Nik - 11/22/2021
Hi Johnny, right on! I wouldn't worry too much about a loss of .4.
Thorsten - 11/25/2021
Hi Nik, great summary. Thanks a lot for that. I wanna buy your recommended Antenna for outdoor on top of buildings (number 1 on your list). But this one is only for USA and Canada. Do you have by instance a recommendation for Europe? Greetings from Germany, Mate.
Nik - 11/25/2021
Hi Thorsten, HNTenna makes a Euro version, here. :)
Perceival - 11/26/2021
Hi Nik, My country is operating at AS923_1, zone3. Will the "USA/CAN (915) 902-928MHz White Outdoor Helium Antenna" work in my area? Thanks, appreciate your help.
Nik - 11/27/2021
Hi Perceival, looks like that freq plan supports different bands; what country are you in?
Ivan - 11/29/2021
Hello Nik, Thank you very much for publishing this. It is very good to understand better what we are supposed to achieve, i never had contact with info about radio waves and antennas and they are fascinating! I was looking the other day at some cellular towers, and they look like to use many directional antennas to achieve the 360 degree coverage. I'm on the highest floor of a 350' building with access to the roof, do you think I would benefit from this kind of setup? Is it possible to use multiple antennas on the helium network? Thank you very much for your time!
Nik - 11/29/2021
Hi Ivan, Happy to help! I haven't yet seen a working Helium setup with multiple antennas. Lots of folks have tried it, but it's generally far more complicated and a PITA than just setting up an omnidirectional and getting the thing high.
Ivan - 11/29/2021
Thank you for your reply Nik! Sure, they indeed look very complicated. I bought the RisingHF RHF2S308 hotspot with 8dbi antenna, I will try to use it stock, do you think i would benefit from using the Omnidirectional https://hntenna.com? Thanks again and have a great day!
Nik - 11/29/2021
Depends on where you are. In the EU and other lower-power-radio zones, a higher gain can really help. In the US, in general, the lower gain antennas like the HNTenna will do really well.
John - 11/29/2021
Hey Gris! I got decent miners around me. Some right next to me. And others 3-4 miner block spaces away. I live in an apartment on the bottom floor. Do you have any recommendation of where to put the antenna ? And what dbi to run. Im the US. Semi populated area. I was thinking of putting it right outside, hanging it right above my porch. Thank you
Nik - 11/30/2021
Hi John, Yeah, get it outside and as high as possible.
Jackson - 11/30/2021
Thanks for the great article. Is the goal to get as many witnesses as possible? If two miners are both earning the 1.00 reward scale would 100 witnesses do worst than one that witnesses 190? Would a higher witness count mean that the antenna is correctly being utilized for the typography that we are in. We are currently testing 8dbi, 12dbi and 16dbi, all outside about 10m off the ground.
Nik - 11/30/2021
Hi Jackson, no, a beacon can only be witnessed by 10 other hotspots. If more than 10 hotspots witness that beacon, 10 are randomly selected.
Vladimir - 12/1/2021
Hello Nik, thank you for all the information you share with us. Is a VSWR: ?1.63 ok for a 5 dbi antenna? https://store.rakwireless.com/products/5dbi-fiber-glass-antenna-supports-863-870mhz?variant=40024050270406 Thank you!
Nik - 12/1/2021
Yep, anything under 2 is fine.
Phil - 12/7/2021
Hi Gristle, I live in a very rural area with very few hotspots, my miner should be here any day now I am in the UK with the closest big group of hotspots within line of site are about 90km away across the sea. I'm 150m above sea-level with the antenna location 10m above that. Would a directional antenna be better for me
Nik - 12/7/2021
Hi Phil, whew, those are big distances for the EU. Yep, I'd probably go directional, at least until PoCv11 comes online.
johnny - 12/7/2021
Hey gristle, hope you been well. Setting up another hotspot next week at another buddies house. Its up on a hill, pretty decent view underneath not super high up though, but I would want to reach miners to the next city over about 35-38km (kent wa to seattle wa). (fat cluster of miners) going to mount it up on his chimey with lmr400 cable prob 25-30ft. Box will be wifi but in the same room as the router probably 15ft away. I got a 8-9 dbi antenna( cant remember) as part of a bundle with my purchase. Is that too powerful of an antenna since im a bit up hill with elevation. or should i get something like a 5.8 rak wireless. Also, is there a way im suppose to be facing the antenna, like which part of the antenna is forward lol thank you! keep up the good work, you are the light of the helium community XD haha
Nik - 12/7/2021
5.8 will prolly be fine, but you should def test that (blog post here on how to test antennas). Dude, put in the effort to get that thing wired via ethernet, NOT WiFi. WiFi will cause you heartache. If the antenna is directional (usually a square or blocky shape) it'll matter which way you face it. Otherwise, it won't.
johnny - 12/7/2021
You are right gristle, ima whip my butt into shape. Im just gonna run 30ft of lmr400 instead of 28ft and run it down the chipney so i can get my miner next to my modem to be connected via ethernet!!! lol. If 5.8 is good enough, i guess il set my 8dbi aside and buy a 5.8! is rak a good one or do you have recommendation between 5.8-7dbi to buy. thx
Yeah! - 12/7/2021
Hey mate. I am reading again and again to take everything in! May I ask? You mention that "our antennas won´t blast through much more than 2 buildings". Is this true for the european miners too that work in different frequencies? I am a bit new into this, so excuse me if this totally off. If it's right though, it would explain why my 2 isolated miners do not witness each other, while they are in a distance of approx 300-400 meters. Thanks again! *(Large Lavender Wasp, if you fancy taking a look :-)
Nik - 12/7/2021
Yep, though it's less the frequency difference and more the power output; much lower in EU868. Cheers, Nik
Aaron Olson - 12/9/2021
I bought a 10 dbi antenna with 33' of cord. It doesn't seem like the best quality cord. Approximately what is my dbi?
Nik - 12/9/2021
Hi Aaron, the product you linked to says " 32.8FT RG58 SMA cable ,include 1pcs RP-SMA adapter". Best case you're looking at a loss of 4.482 dB from the cable and a gain of 10 from the antenna. There are def better options. :)
Hans - 12/10/2021
Hi Nik, with a lot of enthusiasm I read your posts. You impart an incredible amount of knowledge about helium and everything that goes with it. Many thanks for it! I live in Berlin and in the near future I will install a helium miner on the roof of one of the highest buildings in the city (125m). I expect a bit of a coverage shadow, because the antenna has to be placed on one side of the buildings roof and the length of the mast is limited by the maximum allowed total height. The plan is to use a ground plane antenna with 5.15dbi. After reading your post I am a bit unsure if the antenna gain might be too high. What is your opinion about this? With best regards from Berlin. Hans
Nik - 12/10/2021
Wie gehts Hans! You've reached the limits of my high school German. ;) I think the 5.15 dBi is fine. Test it and see, but I wouldn't worry too much about antennas.
Erick Cortes - 12/13/2021
Hello friend first of all I wanted to congratulate you for all the valuable information that is here! I wanted to ask you which antenna do you recommend? I live in an area where there are many hills and houses around it, I am like in a hole, the closest hotspots are after 10km and the furthest 40, all of them are at a higher altitude ... I can put an 8dbi antenna at a great height ??
Erdi - 12/13/2021
Hello, thanks for the info. I have 2 questions. 1.Is it a huge problem if I install a 3dbi antenna slightly tilted on a high building ? 2. What is the best dbi antenna for a bay area (seaside with low elevation like 3 - 4 m near sea - across coasts are around 10 to 20 km away)?
Nik - 12/13/2021
Thanks Erick! Getting the antenna up high is way more important than the type of antenna. Any of the good ones will do; HNTenna, Mcgill, L-com, etc.
Nik - 12/13/2021
Hi Erdi, I'd work pretty hard to make the the antenna is correctly oriented and not tilted, although at 3 dBi the gain pattern will probably allow for a little error of vertical. "Best dBi" is a red herring. Any decent quality antenna will work well, getting it high is the important part. 10-20km over water is easy for LoRa.
Stacey - 12/13/2021
Hello, I just ordered 2 miners. I live in a very rural area I have two other miners 13 miles away then the closest ones are 30 to 50 km away. Terrain is mostly flat. I plan to mount the antenna outside about 30 ft high maybe a little higher. What antenna and other equipment should I be looking at.
Nik - 12/13/2021
That's not very close; I'd set your expectations low for earnings until you have more hotspots within, say, 5 km. A higher gain antenna might help, although getting the antenna itself higher is what will make far more difference.
Duane Lusted - 12/14/2021
Hi Nik, Only just got into Mining a few days ago, and have a 3 month wait like others for my Linxdot. Live in the UK, and live in a normal 2 story house. Got a few hotspots around where I live, but then others are like 10 miles away. Been reading that UK have max 16dBm, but wanting to go with outdoor Antenna instead of the 3dBi indoor it comes with to increase chances of earnings. So, going by that and the new PoCV11, I assume I want to go a max 4.5dBi (looking at Paradar 868 one)? Or should I just get a max 3dBi outdoor one?
Nik - 12/14/2021
Hi Duane, getting the antenna outdoors and up high will be way more important than type of antenna. Either of those (3 or the 4.5) look fine. Enjoy getting it all set up!
Tony - 12/16/2021
Hi Nik, Dig the content. I am a complete newbee. Have my first miner in hand. I am going to try to get it all up and running in January. I live in South Jordan Ut. The topography is rather flat except for the other houses going up in the area. I have a Direct TV antenna on the house that is no longer used. I was thinking of putting an extension on it of 5 feet or so. And getting an antenna that is 48". Not sure what to buy? 5.6 dBI? Will run cable on outside of house. Will need 30 ft or so. Will the LMR 400 work? Can I add additional miners? Thanks and have a great Christmas.
Nik - 12/16/2021
Hey Tony, welcome to GK-land! 5.8 dBi is fine for your antenna. Getting it up high and outside will give you the best performance. Read this to help you understand the density requirements. Rock on.
Jurgis - 12/17/2021
Hello, i appreciate all this info here, I’m interested in buying this miner and antenna, would you think I’d be able to mine anything or connect with someone else if I live in small city approx 500ppl, got 2 hotspots like 15km away in little more populated city 4000ppl it’s at the same sea level as me but there’s forests starting after like 2km from my location. In Europe, Latvia main city is Riga ,there are many miners There it’s about 60km away But the sea level there Is about 200ft less than at my location but also there’s forests between, I live in 3rd story and I could get antenna on roof which would be like +10metres. Just wondering if there would be any antenna that could get me a connection that far or is it profitable with no connections. I find it hard to find information on this. Any help thanks!
Nik - 12/17/2021
Hi Jurgis, you probably won't connect with the situation you described, but I'm betting new Hotspots will pop up in your city soon.
Con - 12/17/2021
Hey Nik, Thank you for the great article. I'm on the 5th floor of a 8th floor condo. Would I need to ground an antenna mounted on my condo balcony door window? If so, would a lightning arrestor suffice?
Nik - 12/17/2021
Technically you should ground all outdoor antennas. Lightning arrestor is part of that chain for sure. In practice you'll find many antennas ungrounded, even by pros. Your mileage may vary.
Elton Hammonds - 12/18/2021
After reading your article, I'm confused by your statement about just forgetting yagi antennas. Why? I've just ordered my Bobcat 300 and outdoor kit with sun shade from RAK. I'll be monitoring the internal component temps closely and am planning to possibly buy a bigger box, crack open the miner to install some heat syncs and cooling fan arrangement to keep it running at optimal temps while adding a thermostat that will monitor the temp inside the box, triggering a cooling fan for the box when it gets too hot inside. Either way, I plan to mount it about 4-5 feet oof the ground onto a pole that will likely be about 30 feet tall. For an aerial, I was thinking of connecting two antennas. The first would be a whip like this one: Signalplus Lora 868/915MHz 900-930MHZ 15dBi Fiberglass Antenna 86inch for Helium Bobcat HNT Hotspot Lora IoT Bobcat Miner Miner Longfi LoRaWAN Blockchain https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092RVG7JZ/ref=cm\_sw\_r\_apan\_glt\_fabc\_CTWF3Q215J9Y2RXSQ07R?\_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 The second would be this yagi, which I would be properly pointed at an area about 15 miles away with many more miners than I have in my immediate area: https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/rf-solutions/ANT-MF-YAG23/5845729 My plan, as I've imagined it so far, is to use a coax splitter at the top, which I am guessing might cost me 3-5dbi and figure I will have the best possible chance of really helping form a bridge for the helium network into my area by using that particular yagi in conjunction with that particular whip 30 feet up, so as to not be blocked by trees and 2 story houses. But, you're saying the Bobcat will absolutely not allow this??? Based on what? I know the dbi actual total dbi will be slightly diminished based on running on 915mhz, by the splitter and furthermore by the 30 feet of coax to the bottom of the mast. But you say this won't work with the Bobcat 300 because the Helium network won't allow for it? Where do you get that information from? I haven't read that anywhere yet. I'm not saying you're wrong, but I just haven't read it anywhere yet. I have a long background in military communications and had given quite a bit of thought to it based on my geography here in central Florida, just north of New Port Richey, and my familiarly with wavelength propagation. Thanks for posting this article and I hope to hear back from you here or by email at [email redacted] thanks ?
Nik - 12/19/2021
Hi Elton, it's definitely not that the Bobcat or Helium won't "allow" it. There is a long and thorough conversation about the whole thing over here. You're thinking in terms of normal radio communications, where it's Ok if a signal is too strong, or you can still pull useful info out of a signal that's slightly too weak. With Helium, the signal has to fall within a much narrower range in order to "prove" it's where/what it "says" it is. IF you're going to use a splitter (which I generally don't recommend as it adds complexity and decreases signal strength to both antennas), both antennas will need to have the same gain. That's because you can only report one gain to the app, so if your whip is 15 dBi the yagi will also have to be 15 dBi. In the specific model you linked, it's not, it's 23 dBi. So you'd have to use an attenuator to bring it down, which will complicate things and negate the whole purpose of using a yagi. You could, if you like playing with radios and math, futz around with an amplifier for the whip, although that's also not recommended. Because 915 and specifically LoRa is such a robust carrier of small packets of data, you don't need to do anything fancy. With clear line of sight (which you'd need anyway for the yagi) you can easily go 30km, and I've seen up to 200km over water. I mean, I get it. When I first found Helium I thought I could apply a previous career's understanding of RF to make "the ultimate antenna setup." I understand the intent to apply past experience to this in order to increase value/coverage etc. I'm not saying it won't work, it's just generally not worth the effort. Helium is built to keep things ultra simple. Just get a low gain antenna up high, report loss accurately to reflect EIRP, and you'll be doing the best you can do for a given location. Remember, *location* is critical to earnings. Antennas & cables & connectors and loss are what give you the last 10% or so of your earnings.
Nash Willis - 12/19/2021
Hi Nick, I live in Clinton wa. 98236. I would think I could order number 4 on your list and roof mount it and point it at Everett. But I do have one close to me and that and one more within 5 miles of me. Thank you, Nash
Nik - 12/19/2021
Hi Nash, just updated the post. I used to recommend those patch antennas, but that was before PoCv11. There's just not that useful anymore. If you get an HNTenna up high you'll be doing about as well as you can do, although you can def try other antennas as well. The big obstacle will be not that many hotspots near you.
Aaron Olson - 12/25/2021
Thanks for the post. I out mine in the attic for two days and it got more witnesses, but less HNT and less overall activities. Should I put it in a spot with more activity and more HNT or in the spot with more witnesses?
Hans - 12/27/2021
My sister is in a great spot central Charlotte, NC. Only one other on her Hex. I have a stock 4DBi antenna on a Bobcat miner in her office window on second floor. Could I do better 10-15 ft higher up INSIDE her attic? What antenna would be good for inside an attic and close to downtown of a city.
Nik - 12/27/2021
Antenna won't matter much, 3-6 dBi is fine. Under-report on app to punch through known attenuators.
Hans - 12/28/2021
Thank you Nik. Would you say window on second floor is better.. or attic 15 ft higher with the stock 4DBI. Currently getting 1.0 scale and 36 witnesses in window. When you say under-report... are you referring to if the antenna is 4 DBI.. put 2.8? Something like that? Really appreciate your service to the community.
Nik - 12/28/2021
Yep, you're offsetting for the known attenuation of your attic. Can't emphasize enough that you should test that prior to doing it.
Jamie - 12/30/2021
Why are directional antennas no longer recommended after PoCv11? Would the longer range of a 9dbi directional antenna not pass validity checks, as the system assumes the range should be within the parameters of a 9dbi omni antenna?
Nik - 12/31/2021
Hi Jamie, they were never really that useful in the Helium space. I tried a bunch of 'em thinking they'd outperform omnis, but so far that hasn't proven true for my deployments. The range isn't an issue; a 3 dBi will reach 200 km, so there's no "range" reason to get a higher gain antenna.
Matthew Yim - 12/31/2021
Hello again! So I noticed that the antenna you recommended that looks like a dome is only 3dbi. Do you recommend that over rak wireless 5.8dbi? I’m in a suburban area , specifically ashburn, va if you wanna take a look.
Matthew Yim - 12/31/2021
Wow to your most recent comment about 3dbi reaching 200km! I had no idea that was the case?!? Then why are so many people opting for higher gain antennas?
Nik - 12/31/2021
Hi Matthew, antennas don't really matter. I've been using the 3 dBi HNTenna with good results, but any of the good antennas from 3-5.8 will be fine.
Nik - 12/31/2021
I don't know why so many people are using high gain antennas. Probably a mistaken belief that "bigger is better".
Zach - 12/31/2021
I'm about 3/4 up on a small mountain/large hill. I just deployed my hotspot with a Rokland 6dbi about 4 days ago. Might be a bit early to tell, but only witnessing about 3 times a day, and being witnessed about 5 times a day (less than .1 HNT per day). Reading this, I'm wondering if going lower would be wiser since most everyone on the side that isn't blocked by the mountain is below me. However, some of the HS I've witnessed are doing close to .7-1.0 HNT per day with antennas with higher gain than me 7.5-9dbi. Very confusing which route to go here, but also limited timeframe on the data to really make an assessment. I also input exactly 6dbi into the app and wonder if that affects my results as well.
Nik - 12/31/2021
Hey Zach, let it go another day or so before you make a final decision. Earnings probably have less to do with the antenna than the location. Location is critical.
Justin B - 12/31/2021
Hey so I have a question, I have a freedomFi miner that comes with a tiny little 1.2 dBi antenna. It's a relatively new set up. I've got the device sitting next to my second story Window, and it just doesn't seem to be witnessing or being witnessed very often. I've witnessed devices and been witnessed before, but none of my beacons have been seen in the past 2 days, and I haven't witnessed any of my neighbors either, so I'm not really sure what's going on. I can't realistically mount an antenna up any higher due to my HOA, but I can probably put a relatively covert outdoor antenna right outside my Window, as long as I don't drill any holes in the building. Central Massachusetts if it matters. Is this likely worth my time / money? Or is it likely that I'm just not in a good location.
Nik - 1/2/2022
If you can't mount it higher and you're not getting the results you want, I'd look for another location.
Mike B - 1/3/2022
I have a question. I currently have a 5.8dbi Omni directional that is attached to a PVC pipe that is attached to the conduit pipe with electrical wires leading into my house. Could the close proximity to those electrical wires be causing my terribly low earnings? The actual antenna is probably 6 ft above the wires but the coaxial does rum down beside it. Thanks in advance!
Ed - 1/4/2022
Hi Nik, Great information. Thank you! I have a Linxdot miner on order(only one with a reasonable delivery) and getting my site ready. I am in the hills in rural area at 900' AGL. There are multiple miners in front of me in a clear line of sight at an elevation of ~ 300' AGL. My clear line of sight view shed is ~150 degrees. All miners are in this view and between 8- 15km away. I was planning on mounting the antenna outdoors on a building, mast height ~ 45' AGL. I will be just below the deciduous tree canopy which would be 150' in front of the proposed location. It should be noted that there is a radio tower 500' away (behind the proposed location) from proposed location at 150' AGL with fire and police columniations equipment. My concern is having enough reach to hit the miners in my view. Reading through your info i learned that i should not use a high gain antenna but most likely a low or medium gain. What antenna i be looking fo? Can you make a recommendation? I am happy to pay a consulting fee to pick your brain as i want to get this right. Take care, Ed
Nik - 1/4/2022
Unlikely. Earnings are far more a function of location and elevation than antennas/cables etc.
Nik - 1/4/2022
Hi Ed, if you're surrounded by trees it'll be a tough push to get out no matter what antenna you use. I might go with a 5.8 and under-assert gain to give it a little more punch getting through the trees.
Ron - 1/10/2022
Hey Nik, Reading through your articles and comments on articles. Are you saying that asserting the dbi in the app will actually impact your signal to the antenna? I bought a hotspot off a friend and he only had an 8dbi antenna, it's up in my attic until the snow melts and I can get on the roof. No one was witnessing my beacons, but I set the antennae in the app to 5Dbi and now more witnesses. Is this expected if the app setting does have an impact? (have a 5.8dbi on order now, i think the 8 is too much)
Nik - 1/10/2022
Hi Ron, Asserting the dBi will only decrease signal power if the asserted gain puts you over the legal limit. Otherwise, the asserted gain is just used in the calcs. Does that make sense?
Andrés Martínez - 1/10/2022
Hi Nik, thanks for the info! My hotspot is 25m high and theres only like three buildings around the city, and the city is kind of flat. Would you recommend me a 5.8dbi antenna?
Nik - 1/10/2022
That should work fine. :)
Mike - 1/11/2022
Hi Nik -- I finally got a couple hotspots deployed using some of the knowledge gained from you, including this article. One of my recent hotspots (Elegant Turquoise Panda - a bobcat currently with manufacturer antenna sitting in a window) is positioned such that it seems to be witnessing & getting witnessed by hotspots that have lower transmit scales. I am in the process of putting up the "oil can" 3 dbi HNTenna outdoors, as that had been my plan since researching all this last summer. However, I have really started to question whether this will have any better result (OR may actually hurt current results!) than the current setup. In thinking through ways to optimize the setup, I have noticed there are many more hotspots with higher transmit scales to the north. So I came back to this article and, like some of the other comments here, I noted that you removed the recommendation for a directional ("patch?") antenna. I thought that might be a good solution to get more activity with higher transmit scale hotspots. I know "outside and up" is recommended, so I am going forward with the HNTenna, but if a directional antenna might help exclude lower transmit scales, wouldn't that make sense? Thanks in advance. I've really appreciated your articles and see that I've gotten behind a bit!
Nik - 1/11/2022
It's an interesting idea, to aim your coverage at "high quality" hotspots. The only way to know for sure is to test it, but...the location itself is the driver of earnings. A "bad" location is hard to overcome, no matter what you do with elevation, pointing, antennas, etc.
Mike - 1/11/2022
Thanks so much! I think it is a good location -- up on the ridge on which downtown KC lies and, given the first few days with the basics and being indoors, it appears to be earning at to slightly above the network average. I'll let the comment thread know how the switch to HNTenna outdoors works... Next question is "What was the directional antenna you had recommended back in the earlier version of the article?" Also, since it seems you have gotten away from deployments with directional antennas, would you happen to have one you want to get out of your way for cheap? ;-) Again, Thank you!
Nik - 1/11/2022
The heavy duty 9 dBi patch from L-com. I'll hold onto mine for other projects, but they're pretty cheap anyway.
Kevin - 1/14/2022
Hi Nik, what dBi would you recommend for a hilly terrain? I currently have a 5.8 dBi about 20 feet from the ground on top of my house. However, I sit in a depression on 3 sides and moving to another location isn't really an option. I know if I could get it higher it would be better, but what if I can't? Would a 3 dBi be better because of the wider angle to get it out and up and for diffraction or maybe I am understanding that wrong? Not super worried about range, if I could pick up more of the other hotspots within 5km of me I would be happy. Thanks for your time.
Ernest - 1/14/2022
Hey Nik, I live in the suburbs on a hill and have an antenna on top of my roof about 40~ feet above ground. I am running 40ft of LMR400, which comes down to about 1.57db of loss. I used to run a 5.8db antenna in my attic when I had near 0 loss. Now that I've put it on the roof, I swapped to an 8dbi antenna to offset the 1.57db loss from the long cable. Was this a valid action or do you think there would be better coverage with the old 5.8db antenna? For reference, I used to get around 300 witnesses and ~80 witnesses with the miner and antenna in my attic.
Nik - 1/14/2022
Hi Kevin, a 3 dBi antenna (and gain pattern) might help provide broader coverage, but I wouldn't expect a huge change. The obstacle is earth, and no amount of (reasonable) gain will get through a hill.
Mike - 1/14/2022
What type of material can be used for antenna mast. Since these miners seem so light I was thinking of mounting my syncrobit and rak 5.8 antennas using 1.5 " PVC 20 ft high . But im reading generally PVC is a poor material?? I also presume I would still want to use a lighting arrestor although I understand the rak antenna has grounding? Using PVC would I have to ground the mast??
Nik - 1/14/2022
Hi Mike, PVC is probably not the best material for long term outdoor deployments. I use metal masts, 4130 steel (which is probably overkill.) No matter what mast type, you should use a lightning arrestor and run a wire to ground.
Michael - 1/15/2022
Trying to decide between a Hntenna 902-928MHz, and a McGill. Location is flat, in an area well populated with miners. Elevation would be 30ft.
Nik - 1/15/2022
Probably not a huge difference. Location & elevation drive earnings. Both are good antennas.
Patrick - 1/15/2022
Hi Nik, Thank you for really great information. I saw some youtube clips with a guy having similar surrondings as me having good success with a Yagi antenna. So I was thinking of getting one. Then I saw here that you say don't bother with the Yagi. Why is that? Is there some other brand you would prefer if going the directional route? Thanks a lot! Patrick
Nik - 1/15/2022
Typically the Yagi beams are too narrow to cover a broad area, which is what the Helium ecosystem generally wants.
Michel - 1/18/2022
Hye Nik, A high gain antenna might anyway be very useful for acquiring more IoT devices signals... So, I would not discourage 10-12 dBi antennas ...
Nik - 1/18/2022
Hi Michel, hmm, I don't think that's correct. Talking with BFGNeil, the way a high gain works and the protocol sensor data is transmitted on aren't a great match.
Zeth L. - 1/23/2022
Hey Nik, I live in a pretty rural suburban area (flat land, mostly 1 and 2 story houses around, no extremely tall buildings) closest hotspot is around 4km away. I just received a SenseCap M1, and I have it set up with the stock antenna (1.2 dbi I belive) mounted high in a window about 12 ft/3.3m above the ground. Reading your info I assume a 3dbi antenna would suffice if I were to mount it roughly 20-40 ft above the ground and outdoors. The name of my hotspot is Overt Silver Viper in North Carolina. If you could let me know your recommendation and opinion, that would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Jeff S. - 1/25/2022
Hi Nik, Thanks for the interesting piece and while a lot of the jargon is over my head my takeaway is location is key and that the right antenna for the right topography makes a difference. I have a SenseCap M1 about 25' above ground level on my roof with an 8 dbi antenna. Switching from my bedroom window with my 3 dbi to my current set up made a difference but not as much as I would have expected. My pattern looks quite a bit like your NY example showing attenuation and topography (I am Tangy Cobalt Python if you care to look). I will try going back to the 3 dbi on the roof to see what happens. If that shows even better results would purchasing a 5dbi possibly given better results than both 3dbi and 8dbi? Or would 3 dbi and 5 dbi likely be about the same? Thanks in advance
Nik - 1/25/2022
Hi Jeff, it's always a little bit of "test and see" when it comes down to it. I don't think you'll see a huge difference no matter what you do antenna-wise, the key will probably be getting it higher.
Allan - 1/30/2022
Hey Nik, Love all your content especially your Youtube channel! :) Quick question: I live near the ocean which obviously extends out flat, but behind us there is a significant hill that rises up quickly. Lot's of hotspots on the otherside of the hill but probably unreachable... My thinking was to put up a 9 db omni antenna or maybe* a mcgill 10 db directional and point it across the water and go for the hotspots 10-25 kms away as I see a lot of local hotspots with low transmit ratings and thinking maybe they will drag me down a bit. Thanks! Allan
Nik - 1/30/2022
Yep, not unreasonable to routinely hit that distance across the water, but you won't need 10 dBi or even 9 for that. A 3 or a 6 will be fine. I've got a 3 that routinely hits over 100 km away over water, sometimes as far as 200 km. 30 km is nothing. :)
DANIEL KAUFFMAN - 2/3/2022
Do you have a rule of thumb for how you weigh the trade-off between putting an antenna up as high as possible vs. the loss from additional LMR400 cable length? For example: If I am putting an antenna on top of my residential roof in a suburban area, am I typically better off with a very short mast and ~3' of LMR400 cable, or a 30' mast with ~33' of LMR400 cable? Ideally, one would want a 30' mast and ~3' of cable, but that would require putting the helium hotspot outside at the top of the mast which has some complexities and limitations. My initial hypothesis is that height is more important than cable loss, so a taller 30' mast with ~33' of LMR400 cable would earn more than a very short mast with minimal cable loss.
Nik - 2/3/2022
Agree re. height being more important than cable length/loss. At 30' you're not losing much on LMR400.
Drei - 2/9/2022
I have been looking for anyone mentioning multiple Antennas. Could you have 1 that reaches further and 1 that reaches wider in your area? So one higher up and one lower? What about 2 hotspots at the same location, 1 with the 9dbi further reach higher up so it covers the whole city and the 2nd one with a 4/5dbi so it covers the wider area?
Nik - 2/9/2022
Hi Drei, technically you can do this, practically it's usually not worth the hassle. The coverage from even a 9 dBi isn't as narrow as I draw it in the pictures. The location will be far more important than the actual setup on the location. Video on this topic here.
Ioannis F. - 2/11/2022
Hello NIK Thank you for the article and all the info, really great! I am waiting for my Sensecap M1 this Monday and I would like your advice about upgrading the antenna. My height is 100m+ (high rise apartment), my180degrees (front) is unobstructed and quite flat( Qatar ) , 180 degrees on the back the same but my building will be blocking. Unfortunately most of the available hotspots are on the back and some on the front..does an upgrade on the antenna be worth it? I can’t go higher. Thanks for any time you put to share some advice.
Nik - 2/11/2022
Hi Ioannis, I'd start with the stock antenna for 3-5 days and see how well it does. If you're hitting in a nice pattern all around you there's no huge need to upgrade. LoRa is pretty robust and can get through a building or two.
Drei - 2/15/2022
Hi Nik, thanks for the previous, reply. If I read up a little more... which I did, I would have found out the answer. One thing worth mentioning to others is that if you want to run 2 hotspots in the same area, try at least different squares, or have 2 isps, since using 1 isp will cause troubles and can become invalidated. Now, in the UK it seems my choices are limited. What do you and anyone else from the UK recommend? 1) mcgill microwave 4dbi 2) mcgill microwave 6dbi 3) paradar 4.5dbi 4) paradar 6.5dbi My location is London Suburbs towards Essex (Brentwood). One one hand I have London, on the other the countryside. I realise that in London my signal is going to stop the moment it reaches any flats or high buildings, which now you get everywhere.
Nik - 2/15/2022
Hi Drei, any of those will be fine. If you want to support the GK blog you can use this link for the McGills; they give me a referral fee for that at no cost to you. No big deal if you don't, it's just an option. I haven't seen the paradars but as long as they're not knock-off cheapies they'll do a good job as well. There WILL be slight differences in all of 'em, but you'll have to test to figure it out, and from what you've described, any of those gains is a great place to start.
Dan - 2/15/2022
Hey I got a pretty stupid question, but I want to make sure. I want to buy LMR - 600 with my Panther X2. On their site it says this "LoRa Antenna - RP-SMA-K". Which connector should I have on my LMR in order to connect it to that miner.
Drei - 2/16/2022
Hi Nik, of course I will use the referral link:)
Nik - 2/16/2022
Thank you!
Omar - 2/17/2022
Hi nick. I almost follow and read all your articles tried to apply most of the scenario could quite my location. But still in a very bad rewards.. I'm in 70 meter high building behind me the mountains in front of me the hall city. I used 5 dbi I'm no 8 and 12. All of them did nothing. I tried to use the filter. Then directional 8 dbi antenna still my rewards are very bad. Around me lot of p2p internet providers and many higher tower for gsm and tv satellites.. I'm so confused .tried so many ways but nothing helps my sensecap miners or votes miners. However in my cou try it's not easy to get the McGill it rak antenna we are only using the Chinese made antennas. But what to do. 8 months of searching trying and experiments. That's one of my miner try to check and tell me if there's some issues I didn't noticed (Brave carmine donkey) now hooked the 8 dbi directional. Lmr400 4 meters. Open port real up and stable power as well. Many that is in advance. Cheers buddy.
Nik - 2/17/2022
You're one of the highest earning Hotspots in the area, there's probably not much more you can do. Great job so far!
CARLOS MOENCK - 2/20/2022
HELLO I WOULD LIKE YOUR HELP IN CHOOSING THE BEST ANTENNA FOR MY NEW SENSECAP M1 THAT ARRIVES ON WEDNESDAY. I LIVE IN MIAMI, SOUTHWEST, WHERE MOST OF THE BUILDINGS ARE BETWEEN 1 AND 2 STORIES HIGH, BUT THERE ARE LOTS OF BIG, LEAFY TREES. SO MY QUESTION IS THE FOLLOWING, KNOWING THAT I WILL PUT MY ANTENNA AT A HEIGHT OF 4 METERS, I CAN'T PUT IT HIGHER THAN THAT: 1- PLACE AN 8 DBI OMNIDIRECTIONAL RAK ANTENNA. OR 2- PLACE A 3 DBI MULTIPOLARIZED OMNIDIRECTIONAL ANTENNA LIKE THE ONES SOLD BY HN ANTENNA. I THOUGHT ABOUT THE FIRST OPTION BECAUSE WITH THE 8 DBI ANTENNA AND MY LOW HEIGHT I CAN REACH EVERYWHERE AND PASS ANY OBSTACLE LIKE TREES AND HOUSES HIGHER THAN THE HEIGHT OF MY ANTENNA. I THOUGHT ABOUT THE SECOND OPTION BECAUSE OF THE OPPORTUNITY TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE MULTIPOLARITY BUT I THINK THAT THE 3 DBI INTENSITY WOULD BE LIMITING MY POSSIBILITIES TO REACH MORE HOTSPOTS DUE TO MY LOW HEIGHT. SO I APPEAL TO YOUR HELP AND EXPERT OPINION ON THE SUBJECT HELIUM, FEEL FREE TO RECOMMEND ME WHAT IN MY CASE YOU WOULD DO. AND IF YOU HAVE PURCHASE LINKS FOR THE TWO VARIANTS IT WOULD ALSO BE OF GREAT HELP. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR VALUABLE HELP AND COOPERATION WITH THE HELIUM COMMUNITY AND HAVE A HAPPY SUNDAY.
Nik - 2/20/2022
Hi Carlos, if you're that low and have to punch through trees, a 6 dBi from McGill will get you the best of both worlds. Link here: https://grstl.ink/mcgill-6dbi
CARLOS MOENCK - 2/20/2022
THANKS A LOT GRISTLE KING YOU ARE THE BEST
Shukhrat - 2/28/2022
Hi Nik, Very helpful article. What would you recommend for me? I live on a hill with lots of trees and 2-3 story buildings. Basically New England. The hotspot is nice vanilla jaguar. The back of the house is pretty much blocked by the hill. However, I plan on putting my miner up on a tree, probably 50-75' up in the air. Hopefully, that can help with the hill. What would you recommend for antenna?
belvin.jerrod - 2/28/2022
Hi Nik, I am getting ready to put a hotspot @ a friends house. Hotspotty & HV mark it as a GREAT spot & simulation. Due to his HOA, he cannot have an antenna on the house. That being said we can get it up to the attic. Which antenna would we use? The Hntenna indoor or outdoor? Thanks
Nik - 2/28/2022
Prolly a higher gain if you have to put it inside.
Shukhrat - 2/28/2022
Hi Nik, I had posted a question earlier today. Would you be able to give an antenna recommendation?
Nik - 2/28/2022
The McGill 6 should be fine: https://grstl.ink/mcgill-6dbi
Chris Evans - 3/12/2022
Hi Nik, thanks for the continued quality content! HNTenna doesn't have a 915MHz option for AUS/NZ, will the US/CAN one work with my 915MHz hotspot here in AUS? If not, do you have any ideas on suppliers that manufacture multi-polarized antennas for the AUS/NZ 915MHz network? Cheers mate, appreciate all the great work you do. :) Chris
Nik - 3/13/2022
Yep, the US915 will work just fine over there. I checked with David de Haaij on this, you've got an "expert" go ahead from him. :)
J-F - 3/14/2022
Hi Nik, Do you known Laird Antenna? I would your knowledge in Multi Polarized Laird Multi https://www.digikey.ca/en/products/detail/laird-connectivity-inc./TRAB9023NP/3521732 vs HnTenna ANT-NH900. Did you known if this antenna is similar? The Antenna is cheaper like hntenna and no custom and duty to Canada. Regards J-F
Nik - 3/14/2022
Looks like a 3 dBi antenna, I don't see anything about multi-polarization. Another 3 dBi option is the McGill.
pcste - 3/14/2022
Hi Nik Im still a bit confused about cable loss. I'm looking to put an antenna on a roof in a small city in uk (no high buldings around but a bit of a hill on one side) was going to get a mcgill 3dbi. i have to run nearly 40ft of lmr-400 cable which would give me a loss of 1.7db does that mean my antenna then becomes 1.3dbi ? if i am running a lot of cable should i choose a 4dbi or 6dbi because of cable loss? Thanks
Nik - 3/14/2022
It won't change the radiation pattern, but it will bring the signal strength down to 1.3 as you've calculated. A 4 or 6 dbi antenna might be a better option there. I'd test your stock antenna first, you might be surprised by performance.
Richard edwards - 3/15/2022
Hi Nik, great info. Seriously, good advice for noobs. However, I disagree with some points. Firstly, high gain antennas should always be first choice. All the sites I designed for the first UK national IoT network had procom 9dBi antennas, be the sites 10m or 70m high. So many people make this mistake. Secondly, higher gain antennas do not fly over the top due to being laser like. The diagrams are just the 3dB beamwidth (area where power is half of maximum). Coverage is still provided outside this area. Added to high elevation and you're still good. For example, the sites we had in London provided good coverage even down the thin narrow streets with high buildings either side. Thirdly, correct about indoor propagation loss.. with the sigfox network i worked on 5m inside was OK, but much more than that was a problem. Quite happy to provide more info on cellular network radio planning, performance and optimisation.
Nik - 3/15/2022
Hi Richard, great points on the overshoot; I've got to update that graphic. :) Keep in mind that with Helium, people are deploying to maximize earnings, not provide sensor coverage. In the early growth of the network, high gain antennas were penalized. At this point (March 2022) the gain doesn't matter much, so a high gain is fine. Interesting to hear from a real world expert, thanks so much for chiming in!
Bryan - 3/18/2022
Hi Nik, Thanks so much for the information! I just got a SenseCap M1 and set it up (Brave Cornflower Rattlesnake). I live in an area that is a bit congested with other miners at resolution 10 there is 1 too many and at resolution 4 there are 455 too many so, the transmit scale all around me hovers around .50 - .65. There are nearby cities that have really sparse network density (all resolutions are wide open) and when I witness units there they have full transmit scales. There is probably room for improvement with my setup - maybe trying to optimize for reaching out to the less populous networks using an 8 or 9dBi antenna? I rent a townhome with thin roofs (no insulation and asphalt shingles) and currently have my miner set up, indoors, in a window sill on the 3rd floor and am using the included 2.6dBi antenna. I might be able to mount an exterior antenna to the outside wall of my unit (though the HOA might not like that). Today I found that I have access to the attic and can mount the antenna about 15-20 feet higher than I would be able to mount it on the outside of my unit. What would you suggest as the best setup? 1. Get an aftermarket antenna and park it in the window sill (25-28 feet high). 2. Get an aftermarket antenna and mount it to the outside wall of my unit (25 - 32 feet high, maybe). 3. Get an aftermarket antenna and mount it in the attic (35-40 feet high). After a few hours of googling I can’t find a good resource on how much power I may lose putting it in the attic (some people say as much as 50%).
Nik - 3/19/2022
Higher is usually better, at those distances you can manage the cable loss with thicker cable (LMR400 or 600).
Terry - 3/21/2022
Hi Nik, Im considering to start my mining journey and I would really appreciate your help. I live in the countryside in the UK (near Ripponden) where around here there are only 5 hotspots about 1.6-2.4km away from me. There are not a lot of houses in the village and there are mostly fields and hills. I was thinking of my putting the antenna at the top of the house (outside) through my attic room so roughly around 7-8m elevation. Could you please advise what would be the best antenna for my use and whether you think there would be any decent rewards? Thank you in advance for your time
Nik - 3/21/2022
Hi Terry, a 6 dBi from McGill should be fine if you can get it outside. Rock on!
Lach - 3/21/2022
Hi Nik, Am looking to order a 3dBi antenna, is there any significant difference between say the ANT-NH900-OUT-WHITE and a standard fiberglass pole 3dBi (860-960MHz)? Cheers
Nik - 3/21/2022
Performance-wise, yes. Earnings-wise, probably not huge. Really depends on where you're deploying. In an urban environment with lots of reflective surfaces a multi-polarized antenna can make a big difference. In suburban and rural environments it may not make as big of a difference.
JimmyWireless - 3/24/2022
I have a two way splitter, go with one Omni and one directional?
John - 3/28/2022
I live at a condo and unlikely to be able to get my miner outside on the roof. Area around is fairly flat with a few hills, suburban. My options are outside, 2nd floor balcony or inside 3rd floor window, there's a tree about 20-30feet in front of the window. Balcony is also near said tree and would also be somewhat blocked by the neighbor 15 feet away. Trying to figure out which of those is best. Considering rak vs higher DBI hntantenna, or if I can ever find a multipolarized 8dbi.
Hamazz - 3/29/2022
Nik, Love your hard work and support to the community. I got a bit of confusion on best setup, Lower vs higher Dbi, thinking of going higher gain directional tilted down slightly. I currently got a 5.8Dbi omni antenna at a height of 12m off the ground, 75m up a hill, 87m total, looking onto the city with flat topology. There is nothing behind me, thinking of going for a 8dbi directional antenna tilted to focus on the city below, as there is nothing behind except mountains. Due to some tall buildings lower down the hill, part of the signal gets blocked im thinking as the witnesses have dropped from 45 odd to 13 recently. and i know there are at least 70 plus hotspots in the vicinity. Any advice
Nik - 3/29/2022
Hi Hamazz, I'd probably leave the setup you have, although you're welcome to experiment. Did witnesses drop after you changed antennas, or was there nothing on your end that you did?
John - 3/29/2022
Hi NIk, Any thoughts on mine above about the 2nd or 3rd floor condo / what antenna to use?
John - 3/30/2022
Hi Nik, Any recommendations for my placement/antenna? (The one above with the 2nd floor balcony and 3rd floor window)
Hamazz - 3/30/2022
Nik Did not change the antenna yet, i think changes in the network and OTA firmware upgrade could be the reason for reduced witnesses. I also got a 3dbi Mcgill Omni which i have not used yet, was trying to decide between going for that or a directional, as there will be no hotspots behind me, so half the signal going out by the omni will not achieve anything, focusing the Dbi on just the forward facing would result in more witnesses?
Shanon - 3/30/2022
Nik, Would fitting a cavity filter to a 6Dbi omni antenna improve the signal quality and cut out the noise of the other frequencies resulting in better rewards?
Pete - 3/30/2022
Great article! Thank you so much. Once thing is unclear for me. I understand the higher the dbi the more laser beam, does that mean that higher dbi are NOT omni-directional? Do I need to rotate my antenna 20 degrees at a time for a week to see if my results will improve?
Nik - 3/30/2022
The whole laser beam idea is a little over exaggerated. Higher dBi will focus your signal more, but it's typically not enough to really worry about. In general, it squashes it from the top and bottom, just like if you pushed on a balloon from the top and bottom. No need to rotate.
Nik - 3/30/2022
Hi John, I'd just try both for 10 days each. There's no clear/definite answer without gathering data.
Nik - 3/30/2022
You *might* see better results with a directional antenna, but unless there's anything blocking your current signal path you probably won't notice a difference.
Nik - 3/30/2022
Only if there's current high interference from other radio signals; if you're on a cell tower or near a cell site.
ken - 3/30/2022
Hi, Is there a difference between the McGill 6or 8 DBI and one you get from Amazon?
Nik - 3/30/2022
There certainly can be. McGill tunes & tests theirs, so you know what you're getting. The Amazon ones can sometimes be smoking hot deals and sometimes be...smoking hot piles of garbage.
elize - 3/31/2022
Great advice
Pete Kepler - 4/3/2022
What do you think is better; antenna in an attic at 35 feet AGL or outside 15 feet on the top of a back porch?
Nik - 4/3/2022
Hi Pete, you'll have to test that. I'd start with the 35' AGL option.
Mr. Rado - 4/8/2022
I have 10 miners and use rfareas magnetic field antennas. the best for me. from the center of my town (Sofia) I have links up to 40 km. and there are very many interferencies near the antennas. good result for me.
Sebastian - 4/16/2022
Hi Nik I live in Hornsby, Australia, my house is surrounded by hills, mountains(lots of trees), only 5% of surround area lower than my house. I mean my house is located under valley. I recently bought HNTenna and installed to replace normal 3dbi antenna(before 6dbi) but it looks very similar performance so far. Do you recommend any other antenna? or HNTenna is better than other? in my house conditions.
Nik - 4/16/2022
Hi Sebastian; no antenna will blast through earth. Not much you can do in the bottom of a valley. See if you can find a better location for it.
Yoann - 4/16/2022
Nik, Thank you so much for your hard work and support to the community, I'm looking for the SenseCAP M1 hotspot EU868 I'm in France, it work on other frequency and I'm a bit confused about the best setup to choose in my case, I'm in a small building at the first floor so not so high, other buildings are higher the building is located around a circle place with other buildings around the circle and some trees in the middle of the circle place there is two streets crossing each other with car traffic and a subway station underneath In the back of the building it is enclosed space with other buildings Also there is already 2 hotspot already visible on the map around about 150 meters (500 feet) away each - should i use the 2.8 dBi because of the round circle space at short distance ? - or the 5.8 dBi to go through the few threes and many cars ? - or the 8 dBi to go through all buildings through the place ? Thank you in advance for your time,
Nik - 4/16/2022
Hi Yoann, 5.8 will will probably be fine for ya. Rock on!
5 Plug & Play Income Ideas 2022 | Crypto Gem Tokens - 4/17/2022
[…] antennas article: https://gristleking.com/antennas-for-helium/ Helium placement article: […]
Alan - 4/18/2022
Good morning, I have a 9dbi mcgill antenna on the roof at 20 meters height + or - I leave a hospot link but it gives me invalids in several hospots at 30km... https://explorer.helium.com/hotspots/112gw67DtWkv9oK6kGi3EX2LnKZPAU4D5AeYR1EtF8P42sfamUsW help please simulation , Would a 6dbi mcgill one be better?
Nik - 4/19/2022
I'd look at how many invalids vs valids you're getting, and which are high and low value. Does that make sense?
Richard S. - 4/21/2022
Nik, you are a great help to the community, much appreciated. I've spent a considerable amount of time trying to find a straight answer to this, but apologize if you've addressed it before. Currently, What happens if you don't update your aftermarket antenna specs on the Helium app? Will it affect the performance on the antenna if the info is not updated correctly to reflect proper DBis? Would the update be needed for each antenna/gain option to actually reap the benefits? As a rule how long would you run each gain option as a test to have an appropriate data sources to pick a winner? Then once you pick a winner update the specs on the Helium app? Cheers Richard
Nik - 4/21/2022
It'll decrease signal strength if you assert a gain that puts you over the legal limit. More over here. 7 day minimum to get good numbers. Check the YouTube interview with Matthew Patrick for more on collecting good stats for Helium related decisions.
The Crawfords - 4/25/2022
Hey Nik, I live out in the country with hills and trees, my nearest fellow hotspot is over a mile away. s it still worth it to set up a hot spot? Gunny
Nik - 4/25/2022
Hey Gunny, if you've got a clear line of sight to that other hotspot you're likely to connect with it. LoRa can easily do a mile. Ideally you'd want a few other hotspots AND have a use in mind for the coverage Helium provides.
Josh - 4/26/2022
Hi Nik- I bought the Peoples Antenna based off your recommendation above. They charged my card but never received any order confirmation and they won’t return support emails. Have you found them to be a generally good company? Do you have a backup budget selection? Thanks for the great content!
BT - 4/26/2022
Any suggestions to maximize my earnings Sensecap M1 with 5.4db antenna placed on the second floor in my house next to the window currently getting around 3$ worth of HNT If I buy a higher DB antenna my earning would increase? whats the best one ? saw filters? Amplifiers? Seeing many things online and getting confused as I dont want to spend too much so what would be my best options https://explorer.helium.com/hotspots/11ADQM15ioZM4KnQoTG7sUAfFe73mox61fdSpZmzUFQcFXKjxyy
Nik - 4/27/2022
Higher gain antenna probably won't do as much as getting your antenna outside and up higher. :)
Nik - 4/27/2022
Hi Josh, they're a generally good company, though growing fast and will have stuff like this slip through the cracks. I'd re-ping them on email one more time, and check through your spam for confirmation. McGill are also good antennas.
Georgi - 4/27/2022
Hi. I want to get Senscap M1 with antenna but I don't know which antenna shoud i get... This is my location https://explorer.helium.com/hotspots/hex/881ec152b7fffff Behind me It is suburb area with 1/2 houses everywhere and in front of me it is pretty much wooded area. What antenna shoud i get 5.8 , 8 , 10 . Which one should be the best in my case?
Nik - 4/27/2022
Hi Georgi, I think you'd be fine with a McGill 6 or maybe higher. Remember, it's more a factor of how high you get your antenna and how much line of sight it has to other antennas than it is which antenna you buy.
Georgi - 4/27/2022
I would probably put it on 10 meters (+- 1-2 meters). I don't know which one should I choose. I would really appreciate it if you tell me which one in particular is the best. This is a reply to your comment APRIL 27, 2022 AT 7:38 AM. Thank you in advance, Georgi
Nik - 4/27/2022
Hi Gerogi, click this link to go to the McGill 6 dBi, which should be fine for you. Remember, the antenna doesn't matter as much as the elevation.
Georgi - 4/28/2022
The elevation in my city is around 390 meters. Will the 6 dbi antenna be the best choise for me?
Nik - 4/28/2022
Hi Georgi, citywide elevation has very little to do with what antenna you should use. It's the specific elevation at the point of install, and how much clear line of sight (to other Hotspots) that gives you. The 6 dBi should be fine.
Moe - 5/3/2022
Hi nik this my location and i want your advice which antenna you recommended to use https://explorer.helium.com/hotspots/11e9gtZYsxr1EE42SdipydLU6Ti3PJVXpdNRqAZv3W8XFRwBqgZ
ryan - 5/9/2022
I just want to know where to get the equipment your using
Nik - 5/9/2022
Anything in particular? McGill's got a wide range.
Jeff S. - 5/20/2022
Hey Nick, quick question. My buddy says to purchase a ‘signal booster’ which attaches to the Miner (Bobcat 300 - in my case) to boost signal ex: FBP-915S. Not near any cell tower and antenna is high above the roof lines in a suburban neighborhood. My first thought is overkill and signal loose out of the gate. Should I consider this booster add-on or chalk it up as BS? Thanks for your time, Nik!
Nik - 5/20/2022
I wouldn't worry about it, but only testing will tell. I haven't used a signal booster on any of my setups so far, and some of them are miles from the nearest Hotspot. All performing fine.
Rusty Ruch - 5/22/2022
Is there info on here about how to get my Bobcat out of relay mode?
Nik - 5/22/2022
Yep, go here. Light Hotspots should make this a thing of the past.
Allen - 5/24/2022
how many km will the 5 dbi - 9 dbi antenna's reach in ideal location? what do they max out at?
Nik - 5/24/2022
Oh, 200 km with clear line of sight is not unheard of, and that's for a 3 dBi antenna.
Lyubo - 6/1/2022
Hey Nik, great job with the information above. You are a master at this and a fantastic member of the community. I recently got my Bobcat 300 and was wondering if it would be safe to put the stock antenna outdoors on the roof for example for better coverage. I really feel that it would improve my earnings as currently, I have it set up inside next to a window. Also, and sorry if you had already addressed this, but would the connection from a wi-fi signal (the signal is coming from an extremely stable 4G connection from a router) be much worse than ethernet? Thank you in advance and keep up the great content!
Nik - 6/1/2022
Hi Lyubo, fine to set up the stock Bobcat antenna outside, I believe it's outdoor rated. Almost always better to get the antenna outside & up high if possible. As far as WiFi vs ethernet, I always figure out how to connect to ethernet cables as that avoids any issues with WiFi, but if WiFi is your only option that's fine.
hangman131st - 7/5/2022
looking to getting into mining is a 15dbi over kill looked online and seen one that is compatible with a bobcat 300, I live in an area that is mostly flat and lots of trees. I would like to get as much range as I can or is there a limit on what I can use. I live in Michigan
Nik - 7/5/2022
Hi Hangman, yes, 15 dBi is overkill. You'll probably be best served with a 9 dBi, just get it up as high as you possibly can. Location is far more important than antenna (or elevation, for that matter).
Martin - 7/12/2022
Hi Nik.I hope you can help with this. I live in Gillingham dorset in UK at altitude 70m.there are a few hotspots in my town but they all seem to be inactive. in town 4 miles away from me there are hotspots which are working fine but the town is at altitude 200-220m, there is a chance to connect with them but what antenna should I buy? 6dbi, 6.5dbi or even bigger ?I would say my town is between the hills. second issue is placement of hotspot. In attic is usually 33C. is that too hot for miner?i can place it on second floor of my house but will have to run a 5m cable. what would be the best? hope you can help. regards
Nik - 7/12/2022
Hi Martin, No antenna will blast through hills. There's a chance the signal will bounce off something and get to the far side, but that's unreliable. In general, 6-9 dBi is going to be your range, and anything in there should work well. The best place for an antenna is up high, the best place for the miner is usually somewhere in a temp range humans can tolerate. Specific miners have specific temp parameters, double check yours. I'd run the 5m of cable to keep the antenna high and the miner out of the heat.
bonusik - 7/12/2022
hi. Thank you for your response. the stronger antenna, less beamwidth it has, for example 6,5dbi has 30degrees vertical, but 8.5dbi has only 10degree vertical. would that matter around hills?so can 6.5dbi reach higher over the hill then 8.5dbi?Am i understanding right? I am thinking about 6dbi but if 7 or 8dbi will work better then I will go for it. regards
Nik - 7/12/2022
Don't worry so much about the "right" antenna. Location is far more important. Antennas don't really matter. Any decent brand from 6-9 dBi will do as well as anything else in the location you're describing.
Xavier - 7/17/2022
Hello, We are having Milesight helium hotspot, model:UG65-868M-EA-H32. Please can you recommend the suitable antenna models for this hotspot to improve coverage and earnings. https://explorer.helium.com/hotspots/1121aRSBSxheung9eFVStXmcV3hsyjU6wcWYkhUNeVGBD8H1qPKh Thanks,
bonusik - 7/21/2022
hi. Thank you for help. 6dbi antenna bought and instaled. I had 4dbi antenna for 2 days and then swapped on 6dbi 2 days ago but I can not see any difference in witnesses, rewards etc. is that normal?or should I wait a few more days? regards
Nik - 7/21/2022
Pretty normal. Switching antennas typically doesn't do a ton to change things; location & elevation are what really matter. I'd wait a few more days to make sure. 7 day minimum for assessing, sometimes more depending on local density.
jeremy west - 11/18/2022
i live 7 miles and have a 50 feet or so placement what dbi antenna should i get im so confused
Nik - 11/19/2022
Hi Jeremy, don't worry too much about the dBi. It won't make a huge difference. If you need "buy this antenna" advice, I'd just pick up a Parley Labs 5.8.
2024 update: Utah’s crypto antenna mystery remains unsolved - Swap - 5/24/2024
[…] the owner of the website/blog Gristle King – A Guide to DePIN, only known as ‘Nik,’ shared a photograph of what appears to be him standing next to an antenna for a Helium hotspot as he […]
