Improving Wireless Range Performance

Given the proliferation of wireless usage at large, getting proper wireless range performance has become increasingly difficult. Additionally, myths and lore have been spread into the law enforcement community about what works and what doesn’t. This article seeks to cut the clutter, is key for those starting from scratch and will give great tips to those who already own wireless gear.

1. Get the freq’n right Freq!

All the bells and whistles in the world are worthless unless your gear is on the right frequency. From the start, you need to determine which frequency is best for you—and which ones to avoid.

For example, a constant source of frustration is WiFi, found in nearly every hotel, home, and increasingly in vehicles and personal electronics. The common WiFi types of 802.11 B/G/N crowd the 2.4GHz range (2,412MHz to 2,484MHz), which is also used by many video transmitters. When the two collide, both suffer. Analog systems may show interference lines, while digital systems maintain video but lose range. Other common interference sources include cellular and ham radio, which also carry FCC compliance risks if misused.

A proven tactic is to not fight interference, but to leverage it. Devices that operate via WiFi or GSM can use existing infrastructure for video, audio, and telemetry transmission.

Beyond common interference, local anomalies (industrial facilities, airports, military bases, etc.) can affect performance. Gear that allows frequency adjustments is highly recommended so you can adapt quickly in the field. In general, higher frequencies are better for static, line-of-sight applications, while lower frequencies outperform in mobile or non-line-of-sight environments.

2. Get the right power

Transmit power directly affects range, especially through obstacles like buildings or vehicles. For example, a 10mW transmitter may reach ½ mile line of sight but only 300’ through residential construction. Boosting to 100mW could double that range. However, bandwidth and encryption also impact performance—the more of each, the more power you’ll need.

Avoid spread spectrum unless absolutely necessary; while secure, it dilutes range. Instead, choose transmitters with the most power your batteries can handle, the smallest bandwidth needed, and the lowest encryption acceptable for mission requirements.

3. Go Digital

Digital systems typically outperform analog in range and interference resistance. Technologies like COFDM even harness multipath reflections to extend performance. WiFi and GSM transmitters also scan and self-adjust to reduce conflicts, blending into existing wireless environments for added discretion.

4. Get the antenna right

A. Proper tuning — Antennas must be tuned to the proper frequency. Even a high-gain antenna will underperform if mismatched. Narrowband antennas outperform wideband for dedicated missions.

B. High Gain — Higher gain generally equals longer range. Swapping a rubber whip for an 8dB antenna can turn a weak signal into a usable one.

C. Mounting location — Elevation matters. Mount antennas as high as possible to avoid obstructions and Fresnel zone issues. In covert ops, maximize placement on the receive side when possible.

D. Antenna cabling — Use proper 50 OHM coax, minimize length, and avoid pinches. Better shielding reduces interference and power loss.

5. Receiver

Receivers are often overlooked but critical. A sensitive receiver can make a mediocre transmitter shine. Compare dBm ratings: lower numbers are better (e.g., -102dBm outperforms -95dBm).

Thanks for reading! If you have any comments or suggestions about future topics, please drop me a line. Also, if you need assistance in finding the right system for your agency, please contact me directly at jlahmann@maxsur.com.

Thanks again,

Jake

Addendum: Even More Important Today

Since writing this article, the principles outlined here have only become more important. The sheer growth of wireless devices—everything from body-worn cameras and drones to IP-based surveillance and WiFi-enabled field tools—means the RF environment is more crowded than ever. Range, frequency management, antenna quality, and clean power practices are no longer optional—they’re essential for mission success.

If your team is evaluating wireless systems or struggling with interference and range issues, we encourage you to call us. The MAXSUR team is here to provide advice and help put together complete wireless solutions tailored to your agency’s needs.