For enthusiasts looking to monitor frequencies while on the move, selecting the right mobile scanner antenna is crucial. Whether you’re tracking public safety communications, air traffic control, or other interesting signals, the antenna is just as important as the scanner radio itself. This guide explores top antenna options and mounting solutions to ensure you get the best reception in your vehicle.
Understanding Your Frequency Needs
The first step in choosing an antenna is knowing the frequency bands you want to monitor. Many users focus on VHF (150 MHz), UHF (450 MHz), and 800 MHz bands, which are commonly used for public service communications. If your interest lies within these ranges, a tri-band antenna is an excellent choice, offering coverage across all three bands without needing to switch antennas.
Top Antenna Mounting Options for Vehicles
Avoiding drilling holes in your car is a common concern, and thankfully, there are several effective, no-drill mounting solutions available. Let’s explore the most popular options:
NMO Mounts: Professional Grade with Options
NMO (New Motorola Mount) is an industry standard for mobile antennas, known for its robust connection and excellent performance. While traditionally requiring a hole drilled into the vehicle, there are now versatile NMO mounting alternatives that bypass drilling:
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Magnetic Mounts (Mag Mounts): Mag mounts offer the easiest installation and require no permanent modification to your vehicle. They utilize a strong magnet to adhere to your car’s roof or trunk.
- Pros: Simple to install and remove, no drilling needed.
- Cons: Can be less secure than permanent mounts, potential for paint scratching from dirt under the magnet or cable movement, cable can be damaged if frequently pinched in doors. Also, they are susceptible to theft.
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Trunk Lip Mounts: These mounts clamp onto the edge of your trunk lid, providing a secure and non-permanent antenna base.
- Pros: No drilling, more secure than mag mounts, relatively easy to install.
- Cons: Cable can rub against the car’s paint when opening and closing the trunk, potentially causing wear.
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L-Bracket Mounts: L-brackets offer a more discreet mounting solution, typically installed under the trunk lid or hood. They require minimal drilling for small screws, usually in hidden areas.
- Pros: More secure than mag mounts, less visible installation, minimal and hidden drilling.
- Cons: Requires minor drilling, slightly more complex installation than mag or trunk lip mounts.
Considering NMO Antennas
For optimal performance across the desired bands (150, 450, and 800 MHz), consider a tri-band NMO antenna like the Larsen NMO150/450/800. These antennas are designed for efficient signal reception on these specific frequencies and are built to be durable for mobile use. They are also reasonably sized, typically under 17 inches, minimizing excessive height on your vehicle.
Choosing the Right Mount for Your Needs
The “best” mount depends on your priorities:
- For ultimate ease and no modifications: Mag mounts are the quickest solution.
- For a balance of security and no drilling: Trunk lip mounts offer a good compromise.
- For a more permanent and discreet install with minimal drilling: L-brackets are a strong option.
- For the most robust and professional setup (if you are willing to drill): Standard NMO mounts directly on the roof provide the best grounding plane and performance. While requiring a larger hole, professional installation minimizes any negative impact on your vehicle.
Conclusion
Selecting the right mobile scanner antenna and mount involves considering your frequency needs, vehicle type, and preference for permanent versus non-permanent installation. By understanding the pros and cons of each mounting option and choosing a quality multi-band antenna, you can significantly enhance your mobile scanning experience and ensure you’re not missing any important transmissions while on the road.
