Connect an external antenna to VTAP50

1. Snap off the VTAP50 and VTAP100 on‑board antenna. We recommend that you break the snap off points by applying pressure with a screwdriver, when the PCB is lying on a flat surface.

   

   Points on VTAP50 to snap off the on-board antenna.

2. Then connect the external antenna to the VTAP reader using the 10/12 pin expansion header via a matching or tuning circuit (see examples in Tune or match antennas). The pins 1 and 2 on the expansion header are used for external antenna connection.

   

   Expansion header to connect external antenna

   CAUTION: Always ensure sufficient clearance between the VTAP antenna and other RF transmitters to avoid electromagnetic interference between equipment. The clearance required varies from antenna to antenna, depending on antenna size, power and sensitivity.