Hi all, I’m (TubesZB) debating about moving to an EFR32MG24 module with no external antenna port, instead it has a PCB antenna. Benefits are a lower cost even factoring in potentially new tariffs coming. In testing the PCB antenna showed about 1-2 dBi difference when measuring from about 30 ft / 9m. And a customer in the field has had no issues
An External Antenna is a necessity
A PCB Antenna is okay since Zigbee is a Mesh
I have no clue
0voters
SiLabs MGM24 module on the right (Channel 20) with external antenna. Alternative EFR32MG24 module on the left with PCB antenna.
One of the first things I did when I bought one of your coordinators was swap out the external antenna for a slightly beefier one I had lying around from an old Android box.
It has worked reliably for almost 4 years and has even managed to maintain a direct 77/74 connection with a bulb in the floor below. All this with 18cm walls and a concrete stairway to deal with.
I voted for external antenna because I wouldn’t have been able to do the antenna swap if everything was internal. I also have doubts whether I would even get that kind of range with a smaller internal antenna.
Sure, you said there was only about 1-2 dBi difference at 9m, but I’m guessing that’s direct line of sight with no brick walls or concrete floors in between, at twice the distance.
thanks for the feedback. The testing I did was not line of sight. but only went through an interior US drywall wall. there is a water heater tank in the path though.
I am trying to get the manufacturer to make a variant with an ipex antenna jack so time will tell.
I did the same - swapped antenna with a more “stronger” one. Works well for me but we have double brick walls and single brick walls.
Yes I understand zigbee is a mesh but for it woks better with the new antenna.
