Choosing the right police scanner antenna for your car can significantly impact reception quality. This guide explores various options, including popular tri-band antennas and mounting solutions, to help you find the best antenna for your needs without necessarily drilling holes in your vehicle.
Understanding Police Scanner Antenna Options
A common choice for mobile scanning is a tri-band antenna covering 150, 450, and 800 MHz frequencies. The Larsen tri-band antenna, for example, offers excellent performance across these bands with a compact design under 17 inches tall. It utilizes a standard NMO (New Motorola) mount, providing flexibility in choosing a suitable mounting method.
Professional NMO Mounting: Minimal Damage, Potential Value Increase
While the standard NMO mount requires a larger hole, professional installation minimizes vehicle damage and may even increase resale value. A professionally installed antenna can be marketed as a feature, highlighting potential benefits like improved GPS or cellular signal. Consider using a generic NMO mount GPS or 800 MHz antenna for this purpose when selling the vehicle.
Exploring No-Drill Mounting Solutions: Mag Mounts and Trunk Lip Mounts
For those who prefer avoiding drilling, magnetic (mag) mount NMO antennas are available. However, they come with drawbacks such as potential paint scratching, cable wear, and theft vulnerability. The constant movement of the cable against the car body, especially when opening and closing doors, can lead to paint damage over time.
Alternatively, trunk lip mounts offer a no-drill solution by clamping onto the trunk deck. However, cable rub against the car body can still occur when opening and closing the trunk, potentially causing paint wear depending on the available space.
Discrete Mounting with L-Brackets: Minimal Drilling, Hidden Placement
Another option is an L-bracket designed for NMO mounts, allowing installation inside the trunk or hood. This method requires drilling small holes for securing the bracket, but these holes are often inconspicuous and placed in less visible areas.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance Between Performance and Installation
Ultimately, the best police scanner antenna for your car depends on your individual needs and priorities. While professional NMO mounting offers optimal performance and potential resale value benefits, no-drill options like mag mounts and trunk lip mounts provide convenient alternatives. L-brackets offer a compromise between performance and discreet installation with minimal drilling. Carefully consider each option’s pros and cons to make an informed decision that best suits your vehicle and scanning requirements.
