Beginner Antenna Questions

[jskimrey]

Hi.

I just recently purchased a PRO-95 handheld scanner.

I've noticed in posts that purchasing an outside antenna will really help with reception. I know that these type of antennas are really for stationary (desktop) receivers, but could one be used with my pro-95?

I realize that this will defeat the portability purpose of handheld, but it would be nice to be able to plug in the outside antenna connection when I'm home.

Any problems with doing this?

I purchased the longer rubber antenna from RS, but I'm looking for something that would work better for home use...

Thanks!

 

[jerneedog]

This needs to be moved to The Antenna Forum.

I use this Outdoor VHF-Hi/UHF Scanner Antenna from Radio Shack, with my SC200 and now with my Pro-95.
It has been a great antenna to get me started.
I don't even have it setup outside yet, it's sitting on top of my book shelf near where I listen to my scanners at.
I must say that it is better than the rubber ducky that come with most hand held scanners.

I've been thinking about buying another one to use at my fishing home at the lake, so on those rainy days,
I can listen to something in the area.

 

[fourwd1]

To answer your question, yes you can connect any type of external antenna to your radio to greatly improve reception and range.

You can do this in your house, car, etc.

 

[jskimrey]

Sorry! Didn't see the antenna forum.

What else is necessary set up this antenna? Do you need to buy some sort of mast if you're going to mount it on the roof?

What about cabeling?

Thanks!

This needs to be moved to The Antenna Forum.

I use this Outdoor VHF-Hi/UHF Scanner Antenna from Radio Shack, with my SC200 and now with my Pro-95.
It has been a great antenna to get me started.
I don't even have it setup outside yet, it's sitting on top of my book shelf near where I listen to my scanners at.
I must say that it is better than the rubber ducky that come with most hand held scanners.

I've been thinking about buying another one to use at my fishing home at the lake, so on those rainy days,
I can listen to something in the area.

 

[OTTER]

jskimrey
What I use is a scantenna from antenna warehouse. I mounted mine in the attic of my garage and ran cable down to my office with a bnc connector. I use this with my bc245xlt hand held and my 780 xlt.
I actually pick up more than I can listen to this way works great and no one knows about the antenna!

 

[LarrySC]

The PRO-95 is a hot receiver. BUT, if you must put up an outside antenna look for a tri-band. VHF/UHF/800. Make sure the elements are cut for each band. Use RG-6 or RG-59. Dont use RG-58. With 6or59 you can use "F" connectors and adp to scanner with twist-on BNC or "F" to BNC adp. This also gives you the option to use a splitter for another scanner and/or an AB or ABC switch if it was needed. I would not consider any antenna with an SO239 / PL259 setup unless you use a PL to "F" adp ahead of the coax. My entire installation is based on this type set-up and its the only one I found that works. Good Luck, Larry