BCD436HP/BCD536HP: Remtronix 800MHz antenna - BNC or SMA?

[BigWonton]

I’m looking to get a Remtronix antenna for my new BCD436HP - should I just get the SMA version or is there a compelling reason to go with the BNC version and use the adapter?

Thanks!

 

[buddrousa]

I use the SMA version and also tested the BNC with the adapter and scene no difference in my area.

 

[garys]

If you plan to remove the antenna a lot, then the BNC is better. I mostly use my 436HP at home attached to an outside antenna. When I travel, I often take it with me and use the Radio Shack antenna (same as the Remtronix) BNC version.

The BNC adapter on the 436HP will stand up to repeated removal cycles better than a SMA. It's also easily replaceable if something happens to it. Using the SMA fitting will mean a trip to Uniden for repair if something happens to that.

So, how you plan to use the scanner will decide which version you want.

 

[marksmith]

I have both and find their performance to be identical.

Mark
536/436/ws1095/996p2/996xt/325p2/396xt/psr800/396t/HP-1/HP-2 & others

 

[jonwienke]

If you plan to remove the antenna a lot, then the BNC is better.

Using BNC antennas means the wear of attaching and removing antennas happens to the adapter, not the SMA connector on the scanner. The Uniden BNC adapter has a fairly wide base, so it spreads out the stress of bending forces on the antenna so you're less likely to break the SMA connector.

 

[BigWonton]

Thanks for all the thoughtful replies and points to consider between SMA and BNC.