Best practice - put dummy load on unused wifi when removing antennas?

[kd4e]

I'm using two Reolink RLC-510WA cams that we already own - hardwired to a TP-Link Omada
wireless link to our router, then to our Empiretech NVR.

I want to remove the antennas but am wondering if it's best to replace them with sma
dummy loads - in case the wifi is accidentally triggered it doesn't harm those circuits.

Something like this:https://www.amazon.com/DHT-Electronics-RP-SMA-coaxial-Termination/dp/B00GN9C1SG/136-1602785-1882655

https://www.amazon.com/DHT-Electronics-RP-SMA-coaxial-Termination/dp/B00GN9C1SG/136-1602785-1882655

FYI: They will be inside a waterproof container with only the lenses exposed.

WDYT?

 

[taz420nj]

Nah, not necessary. First of all it's wifi, we're only talking a few milliwatts. The lower the power the easier it is for the device finals to deal with reflections/SWR. Second, it's a consumer device. They're designed to be used by people not versed in the physics of RF. Your average Joe Consumer is going to see removable wifi antennas and take them off when not using wifi. Unless there is a specific advisory in the manual saying to use dummy loads without antennas, the manufacturer can't void warranties for any damage caused by signal reflections. It's just easier to design a robust final circuit in this type of application than deal with pissed off customers.

 

[Oneup]

It is Always good practice to have an RF port terminated. Sometimes the router will let you adjust the RF output power also. When an RF port is unterminated, all the power is reflected back to the source. This creates a standing wave on the RF line and can emit RF energy into the digital circuits if not properly shielded. The RF energy will create noise on the digital circuitry and could create a problem with your digital bandwidth. Yea, it will probably work w/o the terminations but for 5 bucks, that will save any headaches down the line. Why create problems for yourself? You are correct in selecting the right terminations with the reverse polarity loads. Go for it!