AD-10/S Wideband Dipole Antenna

Overview

The AD-10/S Wideband Dipole Antenna is a robust, vertically polarized dipole designed for stationary applications. It covers a broad frequency range from 108 to 512 MHz, offering reliable performance across its operational spectrum.

Key features include its durable construction with all critical elements enclosed in an epoxy-glass composite tube, and an electrical design that ensures large bandwidth with a relatively constant vertical radiation diagram.

Technical Summary

• Frequency Range: 108 to 512 MHz
• Polarization: Vertical
• Antenna Type: Dipole, Wideband, Omni-directional
• Impedance: 50 ohms
• VSWR: < 2.5
• Gain: -2 to +2 dBi
• Max CW Power: 500 W
• Height: 1100 mm
• Diameter: 130 mm
• Mass: 7.8 kg
• Wind Velocity Tolerance: Up to 160 km/h
• Operating Temperature: -55°C to +80°C
• Connector: N female (on 1-meter integrated coaxial cable)

Operational Use Cases

Intended for stationary applications requiring wideband vertical polarized signal coverage. Its robust design makes it suitable for environments where durability and consistent performance across a broad frequency spectrum are critical.

Deployment Environments

Designed for fixed site deployments. The antenna's internal components are protected within an epoxy-glass composite tube for environmental resilience. It can withstand wind velocities up to 160 km/h and operates effectively in temperatures ranging from -55°C to +80°C.

Installation is facilitated by a special mounting tube and console adapter, supporting mast diameters up to 60 mm (2 inches).

Performance Metrics

Setup & Portability

The AD-10/S is designed for straightforward stationary installation. It includes a 1-meter coaxial cable terminated with an N female connector for immediate connection. A special mounting tube and console adapter are provided, allowing for secure attachment to masts with a diameter up to 60 mm (2 inches).

Compatibility

The integrated coaxial cable is terminated with an N female coaxial connector, providing compatibility with systems utilizing N male cables.

FAQs

General Antenna Selection & Performance

• What are typical gain characteristics for omnidirectional antennas?
  Omnidirectional gains are typically about 0 to 2 dBi within 20 degrees above and below the horizon for antennas of standard dimensions (e.g., a half-wavelength dipole, or a quarter-wavelength monopole). For wideband omnidirectional antennas, gain can sometimes be as low as -20 dB at the lower end of their frequency range, depending on their physical size. Some high-gain omnidirectional antennas can achieve gains of 4 to 8 dBi, but this usually results in their radiation patterns being compressed to ten degrees or less above and below the horizon. The reviewed product data lists a gain for this product ranging from -2 to +2 dBi.
• What factors influence the choice between a monopole and a dipole for tactical communication systems?
  The decision between a monopole or dipole for a particular platform and communication system depends on the concept of operations and other factors, such as co-siting of other antennas and the ability of the platform to form a suitable counterpoise. Generally, handheld and manpack radios often use monopoles, while fixed site and portable applications tend to use dipoles. Vehicles can utilize either type. The reviewed product data identifies this product as a dipole antenna.
• How important are radiation patterns when choosing an antenna?
  Choosing an antenna with the right radiation pattern is as crucial as selecting one with sufficient gain, as it dictates whether the antenna's power will cover the necessary area. An antenna's pattern describes how it radiates energy into space (or receives it). The reviewed product data states this product is engineered for large bandwidth with a relatively constant vertical radiation diagram.
• What should be considered regarding power handling and VSWR for transmit antennas?
  For transmit applications, it is paramount to choose an antenna that can safely handle the maximum continuous power output of the transmitter and tolerate its maximum VSWR. This ensures the antenna's survival and helps prevent reflected power from damaging the transmitter's amplifier. The reviewed product data indicates this product can handle a maximum continuous wave (CW) power of 500 W and has a VSWR of less than 2.5.