1. HOW TO INSTALL THE SYSTEM
7
1.5 Antenna
The antenna plays the most important role in radio communication. If it cannot receive or transmit
due to improper installation, even the most sophisticated transceiver will be useless.
Types of antennas
The most commonly used antenna is a
whip antenna. The recommended mini-
mum total length is 10 meters. For an 8 m
whip antenna, secure it with a lead-in wire
of at least 2 m in length, as shown in the il-
lustration at right.
A long wire antenna can also be used. The
total length must be between 10 and 18
meters.
After setting up the equipment, confirm
that the antenna can tune all frequencies.
General requirements
• Separate the TX antenna as far as possible from stays, metallic objects, and direction finder
antenna.
• The distance to an Inmarsat antenna must be more than five meters.
• The RX antenna (required for duplex communications) should be separated at least five meters
from the TX antenna. Install a receiving antenna junction box at the base of the antenna.
• Locate the insulator away from funnels, etc.
• Use a wave-type insulator to connect to the coupler (or antenna switch) and leave some slack
in the feed-in wire, to prevent direct stress to the coupler.
Installation requirements for whip antenna
• The installation arrangement of the antenna or pedestal must be constructed to withstand the
strain from swaying and vibration.
• Locate the antenna in an elevated position on the ship and at least one meter away from con-
ductive structures.
• Insulate the down lead from the base of the antenna to the coupler. Run as vertically as possible
and not less than 45 degrees towards the horizontal plane.
• For indoor installation, use a lead-in insulator (FURUNO type: YA-256) to make the connection.
If necessary, use a high quality antenna switch and stand-off insulator.
• it is recommended to construct an enclosure around the whip antenna to prevent contact with
the antenna. Also, post a weather resistant “DANGER HIGH VOLTAGE” sign on the enclosure.
Installation requirements for a long wire antenna
• The length of the vertical portion should be longer than four meters. Run as vertically as possi-
ble and within 10 degrees toward the vertical plane.
RX antenna
An RX antenna is required for duplex communications.
8 m or
more 2 m or more
(when using an 8 m
whip antenna)
Antenna Switch
(option)
Antenna
Coupler
At least
1 m
Pedestal
φ
φ:As vertically as possible and not less than
45 degrees towards the horizontal plane.