Overview
Design plastic and metal enclosures without killing antenna range.
Practical checklist
- Plastic enclosures usually detune antennas less than metal.
- Avoid placing antennas directly behind metal panels.
- Leave clearance around the antenna volume.
- Always test RF performance with the final enclosure.
Installation notes
RF range depends on antenna position, enclosure material, cable loss, ground plane, mounting height and the final installation environment.
Testing advice
Measure RSSI, SNR, packet loss or throughput in the final product position. Bench tests often look better than real installations.