For enthusiasts looking to maximize their mobile scanner reception across 150, 450, and 800 MHz bands, selecting the right Car Scanner Antenna is crucial. Many users, like yourself, prefer to avoid drilling holes in their vehicles. Let’s explore some recommended options and mounting solutions that cater to this need, focusing on performance and convenience.
NMO Mount Antennas and the No-Drill Dilemma
The standard for robust mobile antenna installations often revolves around the NMO mount. While traditionally requiring a hole drilled into the vehicle’s body, NMO mounts offer a secure and electrically sound connection. One popular and effective antenna for the specified frequency bands is the Larsen Tri-Band antenna.
Larsen Tri-Band NMO Antenna
The Larsen tri-band antenna is a well-regarded choice for covering 150, 450, and 800 MHz frequencies. Standing under 17 inches tall, it provides a good balance between performance and a low profile. It’s designed for use with an NMO mount, giving you flexibility in choosing your mounting method.
While a professionally installed NMO mount (requiring drilling) is the most secure option and can even be argued to maintain or increase vehicle resale value by offering added functionality, we understand the hesitation to drill. For those seeking no-drill solutions, several alternatives exist.
Exploring No-Drill Car Antenna Mounts
If drilling is not an option, magnetic mounts, trunk lip mounts, and L-bracket mounts offer viable alternatives for NMO antennas.
Magnetic (Mag) Mounts
NMO magnetic mounts provide a completely no-drill solution. They are easy to install and remove, offering flexibility. However, it’s important to be aware of the downsides. Mag mounts can be prone to theft, and even small amounts of dirt trapped underneath can scratch your vehicle’s paint. Additionally, the antenna cable, often run through a door or window, can suffer damage from repeated pinching, especially in frequently used doors, leading to cable failure over time.
Trunk Lip Mounts
Trunk lip NMO mounts present another no-drill option. These mounts clamp onto the edge of your vehicle’s trunk. While avoiding drilling, they can still pose a risk of paint wear where the cable rubs against the vehicle’s body when the trunk is opened and closed. Careful cable management is essential to minimize this issue.
L-Bracket Mounts
For a more permanent, yet still minimally invasive solution, consider NMO L-bracket mounts. These brackets are designed to be mounted inside your trunk or hood. While they do require drilling, it’s only for a few small screws to secure the bracket. These screws are typically placed in less visible areas, minimizing any aesthetic impact.
Conclusion
Choosing the right car scanner antenna and mounting solution depends on your priorities. For optimal performance and security, a drilled NMO mount is still the gold standard. However, for those wanting to avoid drilling, magnetic mounts, trunk lip mounts, and L-bracket mounts offer practical alternatives. Consider the trade-offs of each no-drill option in terms of security, potential for vehicle damage, and ease of installation to make the best choice for your mobile scanning needs.
