An antenna for facilitating remote reading of utility meters is disclosed. The antenna includes a metal rod and a printed circuit board (PCB), both enclosed by an envelope that includes a plastic body and a plastic cap. The plastic body includes a channel for receiving the metal rod. The plastic cap is for covering the plastic body. The PCB includes a dielectric layer located between a first and second metal layers. Secured to the PCB, the metal rod is electrically connected to the second metal layer of the PCB, but not the first metal layer of the PCB.