AD-18/F-HP — Mobile VHF/UHF Wideband Dipole Antenna

Overview

The AD-18/F-HP by Trival Antene is a heavy-duty wideband dipole mobile antenna designed for ground vehicles. Covering the 108 to 512 MHz VHF and UHF bands, this center-fed antenna operates independently of a ground plane. An optional built-in active GPS L1 antenna is available for positioning.

Technical Summary

• Frequency Range: 108 to 512 MHz (VHF/UHF), 1575.42 MHz (optional L-Band GPS)
• Antenna Type: Center-fed wideband dipole
• Polarization: Vertical (main), RHCP (optional GPS)
• Maximum Power: 200 W CW
• Gain: -3 to +2 dBi

Operational Use Cases

• Tactical Communication: Provides wideband VHF/UHF coverage for ground vehicle platforms.
• Positioning: Integrates an optional active GPS L1 antenna within the base for navigation systems.

Deployment Environments

Intended for harsh environments and heavy-duty use. The antenna features a durable 43 mm diameter composite fiberglass radiator and a robust base equipped with a biconical spring to absorb shocks and vibrations.

Performance Metrics

• Operating Frequencies: 108–512 MHz (Main); 1575.42 MHz (GPS)
• Power Handling: 200 W CW
• Main Antenna Gain: -3 to +2 dBi

Setup & Portability

The center-fed electrical design allows the antenna to function completely independently of a ground plane or specific mounting location. Installation is supported by a NATO standard 4.5-inch base plate pattern.

FAQs

• Why choose a dipole over a monopole for vehicle installation? A monopole requires an adequate ground plane to function properly, whereas a dipole antenna is electrically independent of the ground plane and provides consistent performance regardless of the mounting surface.
• What radiation pattern is typical for a vertically polarized omnidirectional antenna? They generally produce a doughnut-shaped radiation pattern with maximum gain directed toward the horizon and distinct nulls directed straight up (zenith) and straight down (nadir).
• What gain levels are common for wideband omnidirectional antennas? Standard-dimension antennas often achieve 0 to 2 dBi near the horizon, but wideband models can experience significantly lower gain at the lowest end of their frequency range.
• Problems we solve: how do we narrow antenna choices? Balancing operating bands, coverage needs and mounting space can make antenna selection difficult. Share those constraints with Cyntony to compare candidate antennas and identify what needs manufacturer confirmation (Our process).
• Outcomes we deliver: what did Cyntony's tactical-link field test establish? Cyntony's 2025 XTND-DIRECT field test showed how terrain, antenna height and clearance affected a specific mesh-radio link. The result informs deployment questions; it does not establish range, throughput or suitability for this product (Field-test account).

Video Notes

Consider a video demonstrating the shock-absorbing capabilities of the built-in biconical spring and showcasing the NATO standard 4.5-inch base plate.