← Back to Antennas

RFELA-3/5X9

RF Explorer 5.8dBi Fiberglass Antenna

Official Product Page →
★★★★★ 4.5
🏠 Fixed Mount Released: Jan 2020
RF Explorer RFELA-3/5X9 5.8dBi fiberglass omnidirectional antenna for LoRa 915MHz

Specifications

Gain
5.8dBi
Size
800mm length
Price Range
$30-40

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ High-quality fiberglass construction
  • ✓ Weatherproof for outdoor use
  • ✓ Omnidirectional coverage
  • ✓ Optimized for 902-928MHz (US ISM band)
  • ✓ Trusted RF Explorer brand

Cons

  • ✗ Large size not suitable for portable use
  • ✗ Higher shipping costs due to size
  • ✗ Requires secure mounting

Where to Buy

RF Explorer Direct
→
Seeed Studio
→

RF Explorer 5.8dBi

Overview

The RF Explorer RFELA-3/5X9 is a professional-grade fiberglass omnidirectional antenna specifically designed for LoRa, LoRaWAN, and ISM band applications in the 902-928MHz range. With 5.8dBi gain, it provides excellent range for fixed installations without the extreme directionality of higher-gain antennas.

Key Features

  • Optimized Frequency Range: 902-928MHz (perfect for US LoRa deployments)
  • 5.8dBi Gain: Strong signal boost while maintaining good vertical coverage
  • Fiberglass Construction: Durable, weatherproof, and long-lasting
  • Omnidirectional Pattern: 360-degree horizontal coverage
  • Professional Quality: Recommended by Seeed Studio

Performance Characteristics

The 5.8dBi gain provides a good balance between range and coverage pattern. Unlike higher-gain antennas (8-9dBi+) that focus the signal into a narrow horizontal plane, the 5.8dBi maintains better coverage to locations above and below the antenna height - important for hilly terrain like Vashon Island.

Installation Notes

  • Mount vertically for best omnidirectional performance
  • Secure mounting required - antenna is 800mm (31.5”) tall
  • Use weatherproof coax cable connections
  • Consider lightning protection for tall installations
  • Clear line of sight around antenna improves coverage

Ideal For

  • Rooftop repeater installations
  • Fixed gateway stations
  • Community mesh network hubs
  • Locations requiring 360-degree coverage
  • Areas with moderate elevation changes

VashonMesh Experience

This antenna is used in several VashonMesh repeater installations and has proven reliable in the Pacific Northwest weather. The fiberglass construction holds up well to wind and rain.

Additional Resources