¶ When to Use this Guide
- When the antenna is damaged during use or when troubleshooting poor signal performance.
- HD digital FPV systems mainly use
IPEXandMMCXconnectors.IPEXconnectors have an advantage in size and can be made very compact, but their mating cycle life is relatively limited, at approximately 30 cycles.
MMCXconnectors are larger, but offer better durability for repeated connection and disconnection, as well as lower signal loss at high frequencies.
¶ What You Need
- A screwdriver set
- A replacement antenna
¶ Procedure
¶ Step 1: Remove the Air Unit Case
Walksnail V2andWalksnail GTair units are used as examples below.
¶ Walksnail V2
- Use an
M1.5hex screwdriver to remove the antenna retaining plate from the air unit housing. - When removing the screws, be careful as the nuts underneath may fall out.
Ask me how I know about the nuts.
¶ Step 2: Remove the Old Antenna
- Hold the antenna by its base and pull it straight upward, perpendicular to the PCB, to disconnect it.
¶ Walksnail GT
- Compared with
IPEX,MMCXantennas are much easier to replace. Simply unplug the old antenna and plug in the new one without removing the housing.
¶ Step 3: Install the New Antenna
-
When installing a new antenna, the
IPEXconnector must be aligned vertically and pressed straight into place. Do not install it at an angle, as this may damage the antenna connector. -
The same applies to
MMCXconnectors. Before insertion, inspect the connector and center pin for damage to avoid poor signal performance during use.
Ask me how I know. -
The images below show examples of a normal connector and damaged connectors.
¶ Step 4: Reassemble the Air Unit
- Reassemble the air unit in the reverse order.
¶ Important Notes
Carefully inspect the antenna connector before reassembly and make sure the antenna and connector are undamaged.