1/4 wave vs. 5/8th wave UHF mobile antenna coverage ?
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1/4 wave vs. 5/8th wave UHF mobile antenna coverage ?
I was curious as to what you guys thought was better as far as TX / RX range would be considered. I'd assume the 5/8th wave would have better performance than a 1/4 wave, no ? This is for a UHF A7 Spectra, and the antenna itself is mounted on a trunk of a 2011 Crown Victoria. Most of the time the radio is used in fringe areas, on Simplex.
Re: 1/4 wave vs. 5/8th wave UHF mobile antenna coverage ?
What type of service area are you running in 99% of the time?
This will indicate the best antenna for the best coverage you need.
Urban areas with tall buildings usually have better results with 1/4 wave antennas, as the signals get up and out better. With flat terrain, such as large, open fields and such, a gain antenna would probably be a better choice, especially if your day to day usage will be at a farther distance than you would be in an urban environment.
Get two, use the one that works best for your day to day comms, but have a spare to swap to in case you get caught having to go where you normally never go.
This will indicate the best antenna for the best coverage you need.
Urban areas with tall buildings usually have better results with 1/4 wave antennas, as the signals get up and out better. With flat terrain, such as large, open fields and such, a gain antenna would probably be a better choice, especially if your day to day usage will be at a farther distance than you would be in an urban environment.
Get two, use the one that works best for your day to day comms, but have a spare to swap to in case you get caught having to go where you normally never go.
Re: 1/4 wave vs. 5/8th wave UHF mobile antenna coverage ?
The gain will only be in the 3-5db range. Whether that makes the difference for you depends on the receiver at the other end.