Are there any owners of a536 using a thru the glass antenna? If so, what are your thoughts on it?
Antenna for 536
- Thread starter dispatcher812
- Start date
- Status
Doesn't matter what radio it is. A thru glass antenna is a slight compromise in performance. If you only listen to local strong signals they are fine. I use one on 900MHz amatuer radio and it's not to bad with a very short coax run to the radio.
The only deal-breaker for thru-the-glass antennas is if you have metallized windows in the vehicle. And that is not always easy to determine... there is at least one other thread here on RR regarding this.
But I have always used a glass mount antenna with the scanner, and it works fine for what I want... which is a broadband antenna with a reasonable listening range. When I'm mobile I don't care to listen to something two counties away. My main interest is within 5-20 miles of my vehicle. Not as good as drilling a hole, but without the drawbacks. Some of the pluses for a glass mount are:
- Inexpensive. My current is a Tram 1199 which is less than $20.
- No holes to drill or magnets to scratch paint on the vehicle.
- Good performance on 700-800 mHz and VHF/UHF. Great for air band and railroad. VHF low OK with strong signals.
- Low profile. And if still too tall for garage can easily be folded down.
But I have always used a glass mount antenna with the scanner, and it works fine for what I want... which is a broadband antenna with a reasonable listening range. When I'm mobile I don't care to listen to something two counties away. My main interest is within 5-20 miles of my vehicle. Not as good as drilling a hole, but without the drawbacks. Some of the pluses for a glass mount are:
- Inexpensive. My current is a Tram 1199 which is less than $20.
- No holes to drill or magnets to scratch paint on the vehicle.
- Good performance on 700-800 mHz and VHF/UHF. Great for air band and railroad. VHF low OK with strong signals.
- Low profile. And if still too tall for garage can easily be folded down.
Thanks guys. I think I may try it. It is going on a 214 Ford Escape.
bama9999
Member
I use one of the one's from Radio Shack, and it does a pretty decent job while mobile, especially on the MSWIN system that I listen to.
I use the Diamond HRKS adhesive mount, stick it right to the windshield.
Route the thin cable to under the hood and then snake in by the door jamb
Works well for me and may be an option for you...
Diamond® Antenna ~ HRKS Adhesive Backed Mount
Route the thin cable to under the hood and then snake in by the door jamb
Works well for me and may be an option for you...
Diamond® Antenna ~ HRKS Adhesive Backed Mount
- Status
