CB Antenna, WX Antenna | Cobra Electronics 29 LTD ST manual

Installation (Cont.)

CB Antenna

Since the maximum allowable power output of the transmitter is limited by the FCC, the antenna is one important factor affecting transmission distance. Only a properly matched antenna system will allow maximum power transfer from the 50 ohm transmission line to the radiating element. In mobile installations (cars, trucks, boats, etc.), an antenna system that is non-directional should be used.

A vertically polarized, quarter-wavelength whip antenna provides the most reli- able operation and greatest range. Shorter, loaded-type whip antennas are more attractive, compact and adequate for applications where the maximum possible distance is not required. Also, the loaded whips do not present the problems of height imposed by a full quarter-wavelength whip.

Mobile whip antennas utilize the metal body of the vehicle as a ground plane. When mounted at a corner of the vehicle they are slightly directional, in the di- rection of the body of the vehicle. For all practical purposes, however, the radia- tion pattern is nondirectional. The slight directional characteristic will be observed only at extreme distances. A standard antenna connector (type SO-239) is provided on the transceiver for easy connection to a standard PL 259 cable termination. Cobra loaded type antenna models are highly recommended for most installations. Consult your Cobra dealer for further details, or call 773-889- 3087 and speak to a Cobra customer representative.

WX Antenna

For best reception of weather channels, we recommend dual band antennas which provide optimum CB and WX reception. If you want more information about models and prices, call our consumer hotline 773-889-3087.

When installed in a boat, the transceiver will not operate at maximum efficien- cy without a ground plate, unless the vessel has a steel hull. Before installing the transceiver in a boat, consult your dealer for information regarding an adequate grounding system and prevention of electrolysis between fittings in the hull and water.

3-Way Combination Antennas are available which allow operation of all three bands (AM-FM & CB), using a single antenna. However, use of this type of antenna usually results in less than normal transmit and receive range when compared to a standard-type "Single Band" antenna designed for CB only. The quality of reception of radio signals is highly dependent on the antenna sys- tem. Typical CB antennas may not be very efficient when used for WX recep- tion. Call 773-889-3087 for further information.

Installation (Cont.)

Ignition Noise Interference

Use of a mobile receiver at low signal levels is normally limited by the presence of electrical noise. The primary source of noise in automobile installations is from the alternator and ignition system in the vehicle. Under most operating conditions, when signal level is adequate, the background noise does not present a serious problem. Also, when extremely low level signals are being received, the transceiver may be operated with vehicle engine turned off. The unit requires very little current and therefore will not significantly discharge the vehicle bat- tery.

Even though the COBRA 29 LTD ST has an automatic noise limiter, in some in- stallations ignition interference may be high enough to make good communica- tions impossible. The electrical noise may come from several sources. Many pos- sibilities exist and variations between vehicles require different solutions to reduce the noise. Consult your COBRA dealer or a 2-way radio technician for help in locating and correcting the source of severe noise.

Base Station Operation (Operation from 120VAC, House Current)

To operate your transceiver from your home or office, using the regular house current as the power source, you will require a 12 VDC power pack that has been specially designed for the purpose. It is available as optional equipment from your COBRA dealer. It consists of a 120-volt, 60 Hz AC to 12-volt DC power converter that delivers the required power for the operation of the transceiver. Simply connect the red (+) and black ( - ) leads of the transceiver to the corresponding terminals of the power packs.

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPERATE THIS TRANSCEIVER BY CONNECTING DIRECTLY TO 120 VAC.

Temporary Mobile Operation

To operate your COBRA transceiver from a car on a temporary basis, you may want to purchase an optional cigar lighter adapter from your COBRA dealer. This adapter and a magnetic mount antenna allow you to quickly "install" your transceiver for temporary use.