AD-55/A — Ultra-Wideband Manpack Antenna

Overview

The AD-55/A is an ultra-wideband manpack antenna designed for modern broadband software-defined radios (SDRs), jammers, and scanners. Operating across the 400 to 2800 MHz frequency range, it features a rugged sleeve dipole center-fed design enclosed in a durable fiberglass radome. The antenna includes an integrated spring element to maintain vertical orientation during active movement.

Technical Summary

• Frequency Range: 400 - 2800 MHz
• Maximum Power: 50 W CW
• Gain: -4 to +2 dBi
• Polarization: Vertical
• Connector: N male
• Design: Sleeve dipole, center-fed
• Radome Material: Fiberglass

Operational Use Cases

• Integration with broadband software-defined radios (SDRs)
• Manpack jammer systems
• Spectrum scanning and monitoring equipment
• Tactical mobile communications

Deployment Environments

Designed for harsh military environments, the antenna meets various MIL-STD-810G environmental specifications. Its rugged fiberglass construction and integrated spring element ensure durability and proper orientation during active dismounted movement.

Performance Metrics

• Gain: -4 to +2 dBi
• Power Handling: Up to 50 W CW maximum
• Frequency Coverage: 400 - 2800 MHz

Setup & Portability

The center-fed sleeve dipole design enables efficient operation without requiring a ground plane. An integrated spring helps the antenna absorb impacts and maintain a vertical position during transport and dynamic operations.

Compatibility

Equipped with an industry-standard N male connector, the antenna is compatible with a wide variety of broadband RF devices and transceivers handling up to 50 W continuous wave power.

FAQs

• Do dipole manpack antennas require a ground plane? A sleeve dipole design is inherently ground-plane independent. This allows the antenna to operate efficiently without relying on the operator or the mounting platform to form a counterpoise.
• How does gain vary in wideband omnidirectional antennas? Wideband omnidirectional antennas naturally exhibit varying gain across their operational spectrum, typically presenting lower gain at the bottom of the frequency range. Consult the specific antenna datasheet to verify performance at target frequencies.
• Can manpack antennas be used on vehicles or fixed sites? While omnidirectional antennas are often optimized for specific platforms, some can be utilized across different structures. Verify the specific mounting interface, environmental ratings, and continuous power handling to ensure suitability for vehicular or fixed installations.
• 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 comes from working through the requirements? The practical outcome is a requirements-led set of product options to evaluate with Cyntony. Confirm performance, compatibility and any service scope for your configuration before selection (Our process).

Video Notes

Consider a short video demonstrating the flexibility of the integrated spring element and providing a close-up of the rugged fiberglass radome and N male connector.