AD-79/18D — Mobile GPS Active Receiving Antenna

Overview

The AD-79/18D is a mobile GPS active receiving antenna designed for use with mobile and portable GPS receivers. It features a ceramic patch antenna and an integrated Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) securely enclosed within a rugged ABS radome. This flexible unit is engineered for both standalone operation and direct integration with existing mobile antenna bases.

Technical Summary

• Frequency Range: GPS L1 (1575.42 MHz)
• Polarization: Right-Hand Circular (RHC)
• Amplifier Gain: Up to 18 dB at 5 V
• Power Handling: Receive-only
• Connector Type: SMA female (standard)
• Cable: Up to 5 meters of RG-316 coaxial cable

Operational Use Cases

This active antenna is optimized for positioning applications across diverse platforms. It is suitable for integration with mobile ground vehicles, tactical manpacks, and handheld receivers requiring reliable GPS L1 signal reception.

Deployment Environments

Protected by a durable ABS radome, the antenna is built to endure the physical demands of mobile and portable field environments.

Performance Metrics

Operating specifically at the GPS L1 frequency of 1575.42 MHz, the antenna utilizes Right-Hand Circular (RHC) polarization. Its integrated Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) boosts signal reception by providing up to 18 dB of gain when supplied with 5 V.

Setup & Portability

Installation is straightforward using the included stainless steel mounting adapter, which features an M10 thread, washers, and a nut. Alternative cable lengths and connector types can be specified to accommodate different portability requirements.

Compatibility

The AD-79/18D functions as a standalone GPS antenna or as a modular addition to standard VHF/UHF broadband mobile antennas, including the AD-18/D, AD-27, and AD-18/E. When combining units, the GPS antenna mounts directly onto the existing antenna base in place of an M10 mounting screw, requiring no additional drilled holes.

FAQs

• How is this active GPS antenna mounted? The unit utilizes a stainless steel adapter with an M10 thread for standalone installation or attachment to compatible antenna bases. Verify physical clearance and thread compatibility on the target platform prior to mounting.
• What does Right-Hand Circular Polarization (RHCP) indicate? RHCP describes the clockwise rotational orientation of the antenna's electric field, which matches standard GPS satellite transmissions. This specifies the field alignment rather than the angular coverage or radiation pattern.
• Can a receive-only antenna be used for transmitting? No, transmitting RF energy through a receive-only unit can destroy internal active components. Verify power handling specifications to confirm the system operates exclusively in reception mode.
• Problems we solve: where do we start with incomplete requirements? An incomplete specification can make product selection difficult. Start by sharing the task, operating environment and known constraints with Cyntony so the team can help define what to verify and which options are worth discussing (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