What feature distinguishes a multidirectional antenna from a standard omnidirectional antenna?

A multidirectional antenna is designed to focus energy in multiple selected directions, which distinguishes it from a standard omnidirectional antenna. Omnidirectional antennas radiate their signal evenly in all horizontal directions, providing a 360-degree coverage pattern without focusing in any specific direction. In contrast, a multidirectional antenna can be adjusted or designed to enhance signal transmission or reception in specific, non-linear directions, allowing for more targeted communication over a broader range than a single directional antenna would allow.

This feature of directing energy in multiple ways makes multidirectional antennas versatile for various applications like point-to-multipoint communications, where signals need to be sent to several locations without broadcasting to the entire area around the antenna. Consequently, this focused radiation pattern can lead to improved performance in environments cluttered with obstacles or interference.

The other choices do not accurately capture the unique aspect of multidirectional antennas. Some may imply that the antenna operates in a single direction or suggest that it is more compact or operates on lower frequency bands, which do not define the multidirectional capability.