RFI TLA4100 Assembly instructions

Installation Sheet
TLA4100/4200
Low Profile Transit Antenna
800-960, 701-2700 & 5700-5800 MHz
GPS (for TLA4200)
The TLA4100/4200 Antenna is designed specifically for rail, light rail
& bus applications and other similarly demanding transit or stationary
applications.
The TLA4100/4200 can be installed with or without a ground plane.
Maximum gain is achieved when a ground plane of greater than 1m2is
used.
1. Introduction
These instructions provide a guide to installing a TLA4100/TLA4200 on the roof of a vehicle.
2. Installation
The method of installation will depend on the type of roof (i.e. material, thickness etc.). It is recommended that this
information is obtained from the vehicle builder prior to installation.
3. Roof Preparation
The area of the roof where the antenna is to be mounted should be free of paint, non-conductive surface treatment, dirt,
corrosion, soot of any kind, oil or grease.
Determine the area where the antenna is to be mounted allowing suitable clearances, and ensuring the mounting area
is flat. Ideally the antenna will be installed at the highest position on the roof structure with no obstructions at the same
height for at least 1m around the antenna. The antenna is shaped with minimal wind loading in mind. Mount the antenna
with the longest dimension of the antenna running parallel with the direction of travel of the vehicle.
4. Installation
4.1 Corrosion
The TLA4100 & TLA4200 are designed using materials and surface finishes that have been selected for their resistance
to corrosion. However, the risk and severity of corrosion will depend on the composition of the mounting surface.
Awareness of the roof material is critical to ensure that the likelihood of corrosion is mitigated.
Copyright RF Industries Pty Ltd 2012. Subject to change without notice.
INS-41232-1 rfiwireless.com.au1
Model Number Frequency VSWR Gain
TLA4100
800-960 MHz
1710-2700 MHz
5700-5800 MHz
<2:1 over operating band 5dBi (using a 1m2 ground plane)
TLA4200
800-960 MHz
1710-2700 MHz
5700-5800 MHz
GPS = 1575.42 MHz
<2:1 over operating band 5dBi (using a 1m2 ground plane)
Specifications
Electrical
Mechanical
Overall dimensions mm 100(W) x 200(L) x 90(H) includes gasket
Radome material UV Stabilised Plastic Moulding
Mount 4 x M6 screws (not included)
Termination Antenna Port = Fixed N Female (TLA4100)
GPS Port = Fixed TNC female (TLA4200)

In cases where the antenna is mounted in harsh environmental and industrial conditions, and in particular on a stainless
steel surface, the risk of galvanic corrosion between the antenna base plate and roof is increased. In these instances we
recommend:
I. Application of an electrically conductive primer (commercial zinc spray) to the roof where the antenna
is to be mounted
II. Application of a suitable sealer:
- around the antenna base plate & roof junction,
- around the base plate & radome junction,
- to fill the antenna mounting screw holes.
4.2 Mounting the Antenna
Use the Mounting Detail drawing as a guide (or the actual antenna base plate) to mark out the mounting hole
positions for drilling. Ensure there are no obstructions inside the roof structure at the mounting position. Drill holes to
accommodate M6 screws.
Use the Mounting Detail drawing as a guide (or the actual antenna base plate) to mark out the connector position(s) for
drilling / cutting / punching. Ensure there are no obstructions inside the roof structure at the mounting position. Drill / cut
/ punch holes to accommodate the connector(s). Hole diameters shown on the Mounting detail drawing allow room for
diameter of the mating connector(s). ****Only the TLA4200 requires a hole for the GPS connector.
NOTE: To meet high voltage protection specifications for applications involving overhead wires, it is necessary to
ensure electrically conductive contact between the base of the antenna and the conductive roof of the vehicle.
4.3 Sealing
The TLA4100/TLA4200 incorporates a sealing gasket. The antenna needs to be mounted on a mechanically stable
surface with good electrical contact between the antenna and the vehicle’s roof. The antenna gasket also requires
sufficient compression to ensure a weather proof seal.
In normal situations, we recommend sealing of the antenna base and mounting screw holes with an appropriate sealant.
The sealant must be liberally applied all around the antenna. Refer to the installation diagram below:
Copyright RF Industries Pty Ltd 2012. Subject to change without notice.
INS-41232-1 rfiwireless.com.au2
installation continued
5. Testing the Antenna
Using appropriate test equipment, check the VSWR.
6. Connection of GPS (TLA4200)
Connect to GPS receiver and test functionality (TLA4200).
Installation Sheet
TLA4100/4200
Low Profile Transit Antenna
800-960, 701-2700 & 5700-5800 MHz
GPS (for TLA4200)

Copyright RF Industries Pty Ltd 2012. Subject to change without notice.
INS-41232-1 rfiwireless.com.au3
Installation Sheet
TLA4100/4200
Low Profile Transit Antenna
800-960, 701-2700 & 5700-5800 MHz
GPS (for TLA4200)
NOT TO SCALE.
IMPORTANT: THIS IS NOT A TEMPLATE FOR DRILLING.