RUGGED VHF-1-2W-RACE Wave Race Antenna Cut Chart Instructions
- June 12, 2024
- Rugged
Table of Contents
RUGGED VHF-1-2W-RACE Wave Race Antenna Cut Chart
Product Information
The VHF-1/2W-RACE is a specialized antenna designed for applications that require optimal performance on a single frequency rather than a wide range of frequencies. It is essential to tune this antenna before use to ensure optimum performance. For wideband applications, the PN VHF-1/2W-SPR antenna should be used instead. While this antenna does not require a ground plane, mounting it on a ground plane will provide the best performance. Please refer to the mounting recommendations on page 2 for more information.
The approximate whip length for tuning the antenna can be determined using the guide provided. However, it is important to note that this chart is only a guide, and antenna tuning should always be carried out with a VSWR meter (PN SWR-METER-KIT) for accurate results. If tuning to a frequency lower than 140MHz, a long whip (Part Number VHF-1/2-WHIP) will be required.
The VHF-1/2W-RACE antenna has the following specifications:
- Type: NMO
- Frequency Range: 136-174 MHz
- Tuning: Must be tuned
- Gain: 4.15 dBi
- Max Power: 120 Watts @140MHz
- Whip Length: 1045mm / 41.4 in
- Whip Materials: Stainless Steel
- Set Screw: M4-0.7
- Allen Wrench: 2mm
- Ground Plane: Not required
Product Usage Instructions
- Before using the VHF-1/2W-RACE antenna, it must be tuned for the desired frequency. Ensure to use a VSWR meter (PN SWR-METER-KIT) for accurate tuning.
- If you are planning to use the antenna for wideband applications, it is recommended to use the PN VHF-1/2W-SPR antenna instead.
- For optimal performance, mount the antenna on a ground plane. Although not required, this will result in the best performance. Refer to the mounting recommendations provided on page 2 for guidance.
- Refer to the whip length guide provided to determine the approximate whip length for tuning the antenna. Please note that this guide is for reference only, and actual tuning should be done using a VSWR meter.
- If you need to tune the antenna to a frequency lower than 140MHz, you will require a long whip (Part Number VHF-1/2-WHIP).
- Ensure there are no obstructions such as light bars, roof racks, air scoops, or GPS antennas that can block the radio signal.
- To achieve maximum radio range, place the antenna as high as possible and in the center of a metal roof.
- Do not coil or bundle the cable. If the cable is too long, have it shortened by a qualified technician or route it in a way that excess length is used up.
- Recommended accessories for use with this antenna include SWR-METER-KIT (sold separately), CRIMP-TOOL (sold separately), STRIP-TOOL (sold separately), and VHF-1/2-WHIP (sold separately).
This antenna is for applications that require the best performance on a single frequency, as opposed to a broad range (Wide-Band) of frequencies.
Although this antenna does not require a ground plane (such as a metal roof), mounting it on a ground plane will always result in the best performance. Use the guide below to determine the approximate whip length when tuning this antenna. Note that this chart is a guide only. Antenna turning should always be performed with a VSWR meter (PN SWR-METER-KIT).
Specification
If tuning to a frequency lower than 140MHz, a long whip, (Part Number VHF-1/2-WHIP) will be required.
| Type | Specs |
|---|---|
| Frequency | 136-174 MHz |
| Tuning | Must be tuned |
| Gain | 4.15 dBi |
| Mount Type | NMO |
| Max Power | 120 Watts |
| Whip Length | @140MHz 1045mm / 41.4” |
| Whip Materials | Stainless Steel |
| Set Screw | M4-0.7 |
| Allen Wrench | 2mm |
| Ground Plane | Not required |
Whip Length Guide
| Freq. (MHz) | Length (mm) | Length (in) |
|---|---|---|
| 136 | 1100 | 43.31 |
| 137 | 1090 | 42.91 |
| 138 | 1075 | 42.32 |
| 139 | 1060 | 41.73 |
| 140 | 1045 | 41.14 |
| 141 | 1035 | 40.75 |
| 142 | 1025 | 40.35 |
| 143 | 992 | 39.06 |
| 144 | 985 | 38.78 |
| 145 | 970 | 38.19 |
| 146 | 940 | 37.01 |
| 147 | 915 | 36.02 |
| 148 | 910 | 35.87 |
| 149 | 900 | 35.43 |
| 150 | 895 | 35.24 |
| 151 | 875 | 34.45 |
| 152 | 858 | 33.78 |
| 153 | 850 | 33.47 |
| 154 | 833 | 32.80 |
| 155 | 823 | 32.40 |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 156 | 815 | 32.09 |
| 157 | 805 | 31.69 |
| 158 | 795 | 31.30 |
| 159 | 785 | 30.91 |
| 160 | 778 | 30.63 |
| 161 | 765 | 30.17 |
| 162 | 755 | 29.72 |
| 163 | 747 | 29.41 |
| 164 | 735 | 28.94 |
| 165 | 728 | 28.66 |
| 166 | 720 | 28.35 |
| 167 | 705 | 27.76 |
| 168 | 693 | 27.28 |
| 169 | 675 | 26.58 |
| 170 | 670 | 26.38 |
| 171 | 670 | 26.38 |
| 172 | 665 | 26.18 |
| 173 | 650 | 25.59 |
| 174 | 640 | 25.20 |
As a result, it MUST BE TUNED prior to use. For wide-band applications, use PN VHF-1/2W-SPR.
- LOOSEN SCREWS
- INSERT WHIP
- TIGHTEN SCREWS
Obstructions
Items such as light bars, roof racks, air scoops, and GPS antennas can block
your radio signal.
Ideal Placement
Place antenna as high as possible and in the center of a metal roof to achieve
maximum radio range.
Never Coil or Bundle
If cable is too long, have it shortened by a qualified technician or route it
so excess length is used up.
Recommended Accessories
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
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