In this work a realistic analysis of the radiation pattern of frequency-diverse arrays is carried out through the introduction of the path loss affecting the field propagation. An essential comparison with the ideal FDA performance is proposed under two scenarios: a basic one with isotropic radiators and absence of coupling between the elements, and a more realistic one involving an array of coupled monopoles. In both cases the obvious impact of the signal strength attenuation with the distance is emphasized, and the ranging capability, always considered the asset of FDA, is critically contrasted. To face this problem, antenna arrays with highly directive radiators are suggested and investigated, and a theoretical solution is proposed. The simulated results show improvements of the FDA radiation performance, limiting the detrimental effect of the path loss.