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800mhz Window Mount ?

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2012 8:11 am
by WA6OXN
I have a project to mount an antenna to the inside of a window using suction cups.

I thought I would ask here if anyone has seen something off the shelf before I go off and make something.

The objective is to remote an antenna from an XTS 800mhz radio up to the window about 4'-6' away. Has to be removable.

I was thinking of making a bracket and just using a NAF5039A dipole antenna with an extension cable. Any other thoughts?

Thanks,

-Steve

Re: 800mhz Window Mount ?

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2012 8:23 am
by Pj
Depending on the cabling et al, what you may gain by being up in the windows could be lost in the cable and adapter run.

Not knowning what kind of application its being used in (assuming scanner/hobbist kinda thing) you may be better off getting a door radio holder or if you have a typical GM/Ford (and many others) type vehicle a dashmounted cell/radio holder that custom fits:

http://pro-fit-intl.com/

Re: 800mhz Window Mount ?

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2012 9:43 am
by tvsjr
There are some scanner-wacker solutions available:
http://www.scannermaster.com/Duckie_Suc ... 540574.htm

Of course, RG-174 isn't really my preference, especially for 800MHz.

Re: 800mhz Window Mount ?

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2012 10:03 am
by AEC
Use an elevated feed antenna first off, then slip a couple of large suction cups around the cable, near the antenna base.
You can use a small amount of silicone 'glue' in the cups to make them somewhat permanent.

Use a length of low loss cable, the same type Circle-M uses for their 800 antenna mounts.
Run the cable away from the whip allowing a few inches below to form the bend radius.
Mount the antenna at least 3" below the window frame to minimize the effect of the body on the antenna's radiating element.
Do NOT attempt to run more than 10 watts through the antenna! Keep people away from the antenna when transmitting (common sense).
But since you state you will be using an XTS, the previous comment is moot.
Porable antennas are NOT designed to handle excessive RF power, except in emergency situations of course.

You can also form a bracket that slips over the glass of a window, add an SMA adaptor and a short lenght oflow loss cable to your radio....DONE!

Re: 800mhz Window Mount ?

Posted: Sat Nov 10, 2012 8:03 am
by N4DES
I have used a few of these with decent performance http://www.tessco.com/products/displayP ... ventPage=2.
I used 2 sided tape, but there is no reason why you couldn't use velcro.

It also comes in a model with shorter coax (I think 3 or 4').

Re: 800mhz Window Mount ?

Posted: Sat Nov 10, 2012 10:17 am
by WA6OXN
That looks like a pretty good solution to my project. Thanks!
KS4VT wrote:I have used a few of these with decent performance http://www.tessco.com/products/displayP ... ventPage=2.
I used 2 sided tape, but there is no reason why you couldn't use velcro.

It also comes in a model with shorter coax (I think 3 or 4').