AD-64/D — Ultra Wideband Manpack Antenna

Overview

The AD-64/D is an ultra-wideband manpack antenna designed for modern broadband software-defined radios (SDRs), jammers, and scanners. Utilizing a sleeve dipole center-fed design, it operates optimally without the need for an external ground plane.

Technical Summary

• Frequency Range: 500 - 3000 MHz
• Maximum Power: 50 W CW
• Polarization: Linear Vertical
• Connector: N male
• Weight: 0.4 kg
• Height: 425 mm

Operational Use Cases

This antenna is engineered for tactical operations involving broadband software-defined radios (SDRs). It effectively supports RF signal monitoring, electronic warfare jamming systems, and secure tactical communications.

Deployment Environments

Designed for harsh military environments, the radiating element is fully enclosed in a rugged fiberglass radome. It is intended primarily for manpack and portable tactical platforms.

Performance Metrics

The antenna delivers continuous ultra-wideband coverage from 500 to 3000 MHz, encompassing the UHF and S bands. It handles continuous wave (CW) power inputs up to 50 W.

Setup & Portability

Weighing just 0.4 kg with a height of 425 mm, the antenna is highly portable for manpack deployment. It features a flexible gooseneck that allows it to be bent into various positions to suit immediate operational needs.

Compatibility

Equipped with a standard N male connector, the antenna integrates easily with standard RF transmit and receive equipment. Its center-fed design ensures full operational compatibility without requiring an attached ground plane.

FAQs

• What does it mean for an antenna to be “ground-plane independent”? A ground-plane independent antenna, such as a dipole, is a self-contained radiating structure. It does not require a conductive surface (ground plane) to form part of the antenna system and achieve its specified performance.
• What is linear vertical polarization? Linear vertical polarization means the antenna’s electric field is oriented vertically, perpendicular to the Earth's surface. For effective communication, the receiving antenna should be matched with the same polarization as the transmitting antenna.
• What is the benefit of the flexible gooseneck on a manpack antenna? The flexible gooseneck allows the operator to orient the antenna for optimal signal link performance, regardless of the radio's position on their person. This helps maintain vertical orientation while moving or changing stance.
• 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 changed for Espy's compact monitoring system? Cyntony helped Espy source antennas that fitted a compact transit case and coordinated later sourcing revisions for removable mounting. This documented result concerns Espy's system; it does not establish this product's dimensions, mounting features or performance (Espy case study).

Video Notes