When setting up a drone's FPV video system, choosing an antenna can seem daunting, but it's easier than it sounds. There are two main types of antennas for FPV drones: RHCP And LHCP . In this article we explain the differences between these antennas, helping you choose the one that best suits your setup.
What are the RHCP and LHCP antennas?
- RHCP : Stands for Right-Hand Circular Polarization (right circular polarization).
- LHCP : Stands for Left-Hand Circular Polarization (left circular polarization).
Both types fall into the category of circularly polarized (CP) antennas. CP antennas are designed to reduce radio interference through a process called multipathing , which eliminates unwanted radio signals, providing a cleaner video signal.
Main difference: Polarization
The main difference between RHCP and LHCP is the polarization side:
- RHCP : Right-side polarization
- LHCP : Left-side polarization
When you buy a set of antennas, you will usually find a pair with the same type of polarization for the transmitter and receiver. If you buy a replacement antenna, make sure to choose one with the same polarization as the original to avoid interference.
Basic rule: do not mix RHCP and LHCP
It is essential to use the same type of antenna on the receiver and transmitter. If you combine RHCP and LHCP, the signal quality will be drastically reduced, causing significant interference and a signal strength loss of up to -30 dB, about 1000 times weaker than a matched system.
Tip: Choose the least popular antenna
Antenna polarization helps reduce interference between neighboring channels on the same frequency. If you fly in an area frequented by other pilots and they all use the same type of antenna (e.g. LHCP), the risk of interference increases. Using the opposite type (e.g. RHCP) may give you a cleaner signal, reducing interference.
Final Tip: Field Test
Before each flight in a new area, perform a signal test to ensure a stable connection. Signal range and quality can vary depending on your location, so it’s always a good idea to check conditions and inform other pilots of your settings to avoid frequency overlap.
We hope this article has helped you understand the differences between RHCP and LHCP antennas and how to choose the right one for your FPV needs. We have several CP antennas available, feel free to contact us with any questions, our team is ready to help!
