Quick question

[Gmoz]

I am looking for a good mobil antenna mostly for 800 Mhz trunking system but some 400 Mhz stuff. My scanner is an BC780 XLT. I plan to place the antenna on my trick bed rail next to the cab (Unless you guys advise differently).

The two I am looking at are the MON751, or the Austin Spectra Mobile. Any feedback on theses would be appreciated.

My next question is NMO or Mag mount? Which is better, I am not reluctant to drill I just want quality.

Last but not least Cable and connectors I understand they matter alot but what are my best options?

Thanks in advance,
Frank

 

[K5MAR]

I use the Spectra, it's a really top-notch antenna. Not putting down the A/S antenna, but it would be really hard-pressed to match the Spectra.

As to the mount, you're confusing the antenna mount with mounting hardware. A mag mount can have any kind of antenna mount you want on it, including NMO. Personally, I'd recommend you drill the hole and put the NMO mount in it as opposed to getting the NMO mag mount. Again, it's not that the mag mounts are bad, it's just that properly-installed surface mount is better.

Cable - in a mobile installation, you'll be alright with a short run of RG-58 (which is what most NMO mounts come with). Use the proper connector for the radio. For best results, see if you can get a custom mount made up with Times Microwave LM-195, this is the same size as RG-58, uses the same connectors, but is lower loss.

The best location for the antenna would be the middle of your roof. Anything else would be a compromise. Higher is better, as well as having the expanse of sheet metal for a proper groundplane.

So, there you have it. Best: Austrin Spectra, custom NMO roof mount with LM-195 coax mounted in the center of the roof terminating in a BNC connector to attach to your 780.

Mark S.