For scanner enthusiasts who want to stay connected on the go, a reliable mobile scanner antenna is essential. Finding the right antenna that covers the frequencies you need without requiring permanent modifications to your vehicle can be a challenge. This guide explores some popular options for Car Scanner Antennas, focusing on antennas for 150 MHz, 450 MHz, and 800 MHz bands, while avoiding the need to drill holes in your vehicle.
Tri-Band NMO Antennas: A Versatile Solution
One highly recommended option for covering the 150, 450, and 800 MHz bands is a tri-band antenna with an NMO (New Motorola Mount) connection. The Larsen NMO150/450/800 antenna is a well-regarded choice in this category. Measuring under 17 inches tall, it provides excellent performance across these key scanning frequencies while maintaining a low profile on your vehicle.
Image: The Larsen NMO150/450/800 tri-band car scanner antenna, a popular choice for mobile scanning.
NMO mounts are known for their robust and reliable connection. While the standard NMO mount does traditionally require drilling a hole, which may deter some users, it’s important to consider the benefits of a professional NMO installation. When done correctly, drilling for an NMO mount can be a minimal and even beneficial modification to your vehicle. A professionally installed NMO mount is discreet and can maintain or even enhance your vehicle’s resale value by presenting it as ready for communication or GPS accessories. Imagine marketing your vehicle with a pre-installed, high-quality antenna mount, ready for a GPS or cellular antenna – a feature that adds value for tech-savvy buyers.
Mag Mount NMOs: Convenience with Caveats
For those strictly against drilling, magnetic NMO mounts offer a no-drill solution. These mounts allow you to easily attach an NMO antenna to your vehicle’s roof or other metallic surface. While convenient, mag mounts come with certain drawbacks.
Image: A magnetic NMO mount base, providing a temporary and non-permanent solution for car scanner antenna installation.
The ease of installation also means they are susceptible to theft. Additionally, dirt and debris trapped beneath the magnetic base can scratch your vehicle’s paint. The antenna cable, often routed through a door or window, can also cause scratches as it moves with the wind or door movements. Furthermore, repeatedly pinching the cable in a doorframe, especially on frequently used doors, can lead to cable damage and eventual failure.
Trunk Lip NMO Mounts: A Compromise Solution
Trunk lip NMO mounts provide another no-drill option that balances convenience and security. These mounts clamp onto the edge of your vehicle’s trunk lid, offering a more secure and permanent feel than mag mounts without requiring drilling into the vehicle body.
Image: A trunk lip NMO mount attached to a vehicle trunk, demonstrating a no-drill mounting method for car scanner antennas.
However, trunk lip mounts are not without their own considerations. Depending on the vehicle design and the tightness of the trunk gap, the antenna cable may rub against the car’s paint as the trunk is opened and closed, potentially causing wear over time. Careful cable routing and protection are essential to minimize this risk.
L-Bracket NMO Mounts: Hidden and Discreet
For a more discreet installation that still avoids large drilled holes, consider using an L-bracket NMO mount. These brackets are designed to be mounted inside the trunk or hood of your vehicle. They do require drilling a few small holes, but these are typically small screw holes that are hidden and minimally invasive.
Image: An L-bracket NMO mount, designed for installing car scanner antennas in less visible locations such as inside a trunk or under a hood.
L-brackets offer a secure and less conspicuous mounting solution. The small screw holes are located in areas that are not readily visible and cause very little impact on the vehicle’s aesthetics or resale value. This option is ideal for those seeking a balance between performance, discretion, and minimal vehicle modification.
Conclusion
Choosing the right car scanner antenna mount depends on your priorities and vehicle. If performance and long-term reliability are paramount, a professionally installed standard NMO mount is an excellent choice. For users who prefer a completely no-drill solution and value convenience, mag mounts or trunk lip mounts offer viable alternatives, albeit with some trade-offs. Finally, L-brackets provide a discreet and secure option for those willing to make very minor and hidden modifications. Carefully consider the pros and cons of each type to select the best car scanner antenna setup for your mobile scanning needs.
