For enthusiasts relying on the Uniden BCD436HP scanner for on-the-go monitoring, the stock antenna can sometimes fall short, especially when you’re mobile in your vehicle. Upgrading to a dedicated car antenna can significantly enhance your scanner’s reception, pulling in weaker signals and expanding your listening range. If you’re looking to maximize the potential of your BCD436HP in your car, selecting the right antenna is crucial. Fortunately, there are excellent aftermarket options available that can dramatically improve performance across various frequency bands.
Two popular and highly recommended antennas for the Uniden BCD436HP scanner are the Remtronix 842B and the Comet W100RX. Both are designed to offer superior performance compared to standard antennas and are well-regarded within the scanner community. Let’s delve into the specifics of each to help you decide which car antenna best suits your needs.
The Remtronix 842B stands out as a robust and versatile choice for scanner users. It has garnered positive reviews across numerous platforms, particularly within the Radio Reference forums, indicating strong real-world performance. This antenna is known for its solid performance across key frequency ranges, including VHF High, UHF, and the 700, 800, and 900 MHz bands. These are critical bands for public safety, business, and other communications, making the Remtronix 842B an excellent all-around performer for general scanning purposes.
One of the practical aspects of the Remtronix 842B is its availability in both SMA and BNC connector types. While the Uniden BCD436HP scanner typically uses an SMA connector, having options is beneficial. If you intend to use your antenna with multiple scanners that might have different connector types, opting for the BNC version along with an SMA adapter provides greater flexibility. For dedicated use with the BCD436HP, either the SMA or BNC (with adapter if needed) version of the Remtronix 842B will connect seamlessly. A minor aesthetic detail to note is that there might be a very slight gap at the antenna’s base when connected to the BCD436HP. However, this is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect performance. A simple and inexpensive fix for this, if desired, is to use small rubber washers from a hardware store to fill the gap and create a flush look.
Alternatively, the Comet W100RX presents a different approach with its telescopic design. This antenna offers the advantage of being tunable to specific frequencies by adjusting its length. This feature can be particularly useful if you frequently monitor specific frequencies and want to optimize reception for those. Furthermore, the Comet W100RX excels in improving VHF low band performance, which can be a weaker area for many stock antennas. If VHF low band reception is important for your scanning activities, the W100RX is definitely worth considering.
The Comet W100RX also features a double-jointed design, allowing it to be collapsed and folded to the side of the scanner. This is a convenient feature for portability and for protecting the antenna when the scanner is on your belt clip or being stored. Like the Remtronix 842B, the Comet W100RX is available in an SMA connector version, making it directly compatible with the Uniden BCD436HP. One maintenance aspect to be aware of with the Comet W100RX is that the joints may require occasional tightening over time to maintain their desired position.
In conclusion, both the Remtronix 842B and the Comet W100RX are excellent car antenna upgrades for the Uniden BCD436HP scanner, each with its own strengths. The Remtronix 842B is a solid all-around performer, particularly strong on VHF High, UHF, and higher bands, offering simplicity and robustness. The Comet W100RX provides frequency tuning capability and improved VHF low band reception, along with a convenient foldable design. Your choice will depend on your specific scanning interests and priorities. If you need broad coverage across common bands, the Remtronix 842B is a fantastic choice. If you prioritize VHF low band or frequency-specific tuning and portability, the Comet W100RX is a compelling alternative. Either way, upgrading to one of these antennas will significantly enhance your car scanning experience with the Uniden BCD436HP.
