SignalUp: A new paradigm in antenna design

Regardless of how wireless technology is applied, signal strength and stability are dependent on one key factor: antenna design.

Acer`s SignalUp technology utilises the most efficient antenna type available in the market - PIFA (planar inverted-F antenna). PIFA creates an exceptionally uniform 3D signal sphere via its inverted-F design, which generates an omni-directional signal field.

Research has shown PIFA antennae to be more efficient than other popular two-dimensional antenna types, such as IFA (inverted-F antenna) and MLA (meander-line antenna). The improved efficiency and enhanced transmission and reception stem from the antenna`s cubic structure, which enables 3D signal generation and a surface area double that of other antennas.

"PIFA is a proven, compact antenna technology currently used in mobile phones. As with mobile phones, a notebook`s wireless performance depends largely on the antenna used. With Acer SignalUp technology, the omni-directional signal sphere generated by PIFA ensures optimum wireless performance," says Gary De Menezes, commercial director at Acer.

Acer is the only PC maker to have its own RF (radio frequency) laboratory in Taiwan, where its wireless products are made, allowing rigorous quality control standards for manufacturing and testing.

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Based on the premise that signal reception increases the higher the antenna is located - examples are radio and television stations - Acer has placed two efficient PIFA antennas on top of the notebook LCD panel.

"The Acer SignalUp dual-antenna panel-top design creates a perfectly shaped omni-directional signal sphere, which ensures that a wireless connection remains strong even at the outer limit of an access point`s range," says De Menezes. "SignalUp`s panel-top placement reduces the interference caused by conventional notebook`s shielding, mechanical parts and processors."

The panel-top design has also been endorsed and recommended by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as it minimises the signal absorption rate (SAR) by the human body.

"With Acer SignalUp technology, compatibility is guaranteed via WiFi Alliance certification, thereby ensuring constant connectivity as users move from one WiFi zone to another. With strong security protocols, such as WiFi Alliance verified WPA (WiFi Protected Access) and Cisco`s CCX (Cisco Compatibility Extension), users are assured that their critical information is kept confidential," De Menezes concludes.