For enthusiasts who rely on radio scanners while on the move, selecting the right In Car Scanner Antenna is crucial for clear and consistent reception. Just like Gregg251, N2UUP, who posted in an online forum seeking recommendations, many users are looking for antennas that perform well across various bands without requiring permanent vehicle modifications. This guide explores top recommendations and considerations for choosing the ideal car scanner antenna for your needs, focusing on performance and ease of installation.
One highly recommended option, as mentioned in the forum, is the Larsen Tri-Band antenna (https://www.theantennafarm.com/catalog/larsen-nmo150-450-800-1050.html). This antenna is specifically designed to cover the 150 MHz, 450 MHz, and 800 MHz bands, making it a versatile choice for scanner users who monitor a range of frequencies. Its relatively short height, under 17 inches, is also a practical advantage for mobile use, reducing the risk of damage from low-hanging obstacles.
Alt text: Larsen NMO150-450-800 Tri-Band in car scanner antenna providing wide frequency coverage.
The Larsen Tri-Band utilizes the standard NMO mount, which offers flexibility in installation. While a traditional NMO mount does require drilling a hole, which might deter some users, it’s worth considering the advantages of a professionally installed permanent mount. As highlighted in the forum discussion, a properly installed NMO mount can be seen as a minimal modification that, if anything, might even enhance the resale value of your vehicle by suggesting it’s equipped for advanced communication or GPS capabilities. You could even repurpose the mount for a GPS or cellular antenna in the future, adding to its long-term utility.
However, for those strictly against drilling, there are several no-drill mounting solutions available for car scanner antennas. Magnetic mounts (mag mounts) are a popular alternative, and NMO mag mount versions like this one (https://www.tessco.com/products/displayProductInfo.do?sku=51777&eventPage=1) provide a convenient and easily removable option. Mag mounts are simple to install – just place them on a metallic surface on your vehicle’s roof or trunk.
Alt text: NMO magnetic mount base for in car scanner antenna, offering non-permanent installation.
Despite their convenience, mag mounts have some drawbacks. They can be susceptible to theft, and dirt trapped beneath the mount can scratch your vehicle’s paint. Furthermore, the antenna cable, often routed through a door or window, can suffer wear and tear from repeated pinching, especially in frequently used doors. This can eventually lead to cable damage and signal degradation.
Another no-drill option is the trunk lip mount, such as the Larsen NMO Trunk Lip Mount (http://www.theantennafarm.com/catalog/larsen-nmotlp-1171.html). This type of mount clamps onto the edge of your trunk lid, providing a secure base for your in car scanner antenna without requiring any drilling.
Alt text: Larsen NMO trunk lip mount securing a mobile scanner antenna to a car trunk edge.
However, trunk lip mounts are not without their considerations. Depending on your vehicle’s design, 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 is essential to minimize this risk.
Finally, for a more discreet yet still relatively non-permanent solution, consider an L-bracket NMO mount (https://www.tessco.com/products/displayProductInfo.do?sku=76219). This bracket mounts inside your trunk or hood, requiring only a couple of small screw holes in less visible areas. While it does involve minimal drilling, it offers a more secure and permanent-feeling installation than a mag mount, with the antenna cable hidden from plain sight.
Alt text: L-bracket NMO mount used for installing an in car scanner antenna inside a vehicle trunk.
Choosing the right in car scanner antenna involves balancing performance requirements with installation preferences. Whether you opt for a high-performance triband antenna with a permanent NMO mount, or prioritize a no-drill solution like a mag mount or trunk lip mount, understanding the pros and cons of each option will ensure you select the best antenna for your mobile scanning needs. Explore the range of mobile scanner antennas available at carw.store to find the perfect match for your vehicle and scanning requirements.
