What Antenna?
Submitted: Wednesday, Apr 02, 2008 at 22:34
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Hilux03
Gday,
I've decided on buying a GME TX 3220 UHF but now have a dilemma in choosing an antenna.
I was recommended a 6db (2.1 metre) antenna by the
shop assistant today and also looked at a 4.5db (1.2 metre) antenna - both GME's.
I will be operating mainly in flat areas around SA so understand that the 6db will give me best range - only problem being is that the thing is massive - 2.1 metres! I'm basically after something that will be good for convoy work and possibly get me heard when camping in the more remote areas of SA.
The 4.5 db is a much more workable size at 1.2m so i'm curious as to how much reception i could expect to lose if i went with the 4.5db?...
If it were you buying it would you go the 6db or the 4.5db? It's going on an 03 Hilux.
Cheers guys, any opinions would be a massive help as i'm certainly no expert in this field.
Reply By: John R (SA) - Wednesday, Apr 02, 2008 at 22:52
Wednesday, Apr 02, 2008 at 22:52
I'm a fan of the GME AE409 antenna kit - it has a 6dB & 9dB antenna (you construct the antenna to suit . . it's a simple arrangement comprising mainly stainless steel rod. It'll make sense when you see one).
Although I find the 9dB version occasionally breaks the bottom length of stainless steel rod just above the base when used persistently in rough environments (it takes about a minute to fix), this is the antenna I find best.
I also like the fact that the antenna screws off the cable mount, so can easily be replaced with a rubber ducky, or 4.5dB elevated feed.
We presently have about a dozen various machines with mostly 6 or 9 dB antennas on the 4wd's.
AnswerID:
296268
Follow Up By: DIO - Thursday, Apr 03, 2008 at 09:58
Thursday, Apr 03, 2008 at 09:58
Agree with
John, AE409L is a good combination. Once fitted it can also be laid down flat (to roof) to enable access to low-roofed buildings. Added benefit allows removal and replacement with rubber duckie for around town. Cost about $100
Check the GME site
Link for additional info including tips on choosing the correct antenna. Think you'll find that BIG isn't necessarily better. It's all about performance.
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Reply By: Member - Jeff H (QLD) - Thursday, Apr 03, 2008 at 11:12
Thursday, Apr 03, 2008 at 11:12
H03,
As
John R suggests, consider Prestige Comms.
Our TX 3220 + RFI CD900 unit arrived hassle-free. The first antenna self-destructed within 5,000. (I suspect the whip was over-hardened). RFI replaced it, and 100000km later, it's fine, although I did strengthen the 'waist'.
Non-removable, but slim and relatively unobtrusive @ 910 inc. spring.
Just my 2bob's worth. Good luck eh.
Jeff H.
AnswerID:
296337
Follow Up By: John R (SA) - Thursday, Apr 03, 2008 at 13:31
Thursday, Apr 03, 2008 at 13:31
I was going to wish you more luck with your RFI than I had Jeff, but too late!!
I was never terribly excited by the performance of
mine, and broke it after about 12 months. The bit that really annoyed me was the couple of hours spent replacing all the cabling!
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