436 Question

[Larkin71]

I am considering changing to the 436HP, I have a question though, can any antenna be hooked to it or just a certain kind? Like an outdoor antenna for instance. I am intrigued by the portability of it, as opposed to my 536, which is harder to cart around. Thanks!

 

[Jay911]

Yup, you can use any antenna that can be adapted to the SMA connector. I do believe there is an SMA to BNC adapter included in the box (BNC being the pin-lug type of connector common on models like the 536, and most older scanners).

I have an adapter/pigtail cable (short adapter cable) that will even let me connect to my truck's PL259-terminated mounted antenna.

 

[AA6IO]

Yes, I have used an outside antenna on my 436HP from time to time and it works fine. Very comparable to my 536HP with the outside antenna. If I could have only one portable from among all I have listed below, it would be the 436HP.

Steve AA6IO

 

[AA6IO]

Yes, the 436 comes with an SMA to BNC adapter. However, I second Jay's recommendation about the adapter/pigtail cable. When I have used the outside antennas on my portable rigs, I always use an adapter/pigtail cable to avoid direct strain on the connector on the 436HP or other handheld.
Steve AA6IO

 

[jonwienke]

I have the SMA-BNC adapter on my 436 constantly. When using it as a portable, I use a whip antenna with a BNC connector, and the antennas at the house and in my vehicle also have BNC connectors. BNC makes it easy to change antennas quickly, and all of the wear associated with changing antennas is on the adapter. If the adapter ever starts having connection problems, I will just change the adapter.