Cdsenet TX170-JKD-20 170MHz VHF Antenna 3.0dBi Gain SMA-J Connector

Flexible Folding Structure for Optimal Signal Positioning

The antenna features a precision-engineered 90-degree tilt mechanism and 360-degree rotation capability, enabling optimal signal alignment in confined spaces. The TPEE material provides superior flexibility and mechanical resilience, withstanding over 10,000 bend cycles without performance degradation. This design is ideal for portable VHF devices requiring compact storage and rapid deployment.

Gold-Plated SMA-J Connector for Maximum Reliability

The precision-machined SMA-J (SMA Male) connector features a nickel-plated brass body with a gold-plated center pin, ensuring insertion loss below 0.2 dB and maintaining stable impedance matching across temperature extremes. The connector is rated for 500+ mating cycles and provides IP67-level sealing when properly installed, making it suitable for industrial and outdoor applications.

Verified using Agilent E5071C Network Analyzer at 170MHz center frequency: VSWR measured consistently below 1.5 across the operational bandwidth, ensuring stable RF transmission with minimal reflected power. Return loss (S11) exceeds -14 dB, confirming excellent impedance matching to 50¦¸ systems.

(Full S11 / VSWR / Smith Chart data available in technical datasheet)

Q: Is this antenna compatible with 433MHz or 2.4GHz wireless modules?

A: No, the TX170-JKD-20 is specifically tuned for the 170MHz VHF band. Using it on other frequencies (such as 433MHz UHF or 2.4GHz ISM band) will result in high VSWR (>3.0), significant signal reflection, and potential damage to your RF transceiver. For 433MHz applications, please refer to our TX433 series antennas; for 2.4GHz, explore our TX2400 series.

Q: What type of connector does my device need to interface with this antenna?

A: This antenna features an SMA-J (SMA Male) connector with internal threading and an internal center pin. Your device must have an SMA-K (SMA Female) connector to mate properly. The connector is gold-plated for corrosion resistance and rated for 500+ mating cycles. Ensure proper torque (5-8 in-lbs) during installation to maintain IP67 sealing and optimal electrical contact.

Q: Can this antenna withstand outdoor and industrial environments?

A: Yes, the TX170-JKD-20 is designed for demanding environments. The TPEE material provides excellent UV resistance, chemical resistance, and mechanical flexibility across an operating temperature range of -40¡ãC to +85¡ãC. The antenna is RoHS compliant and, when properly installed with the SMA connector sealed, achieves IP67-level protection against dust and temporary water immersion. It has been tested for over 10,000 bend cycles without performance degradation, making it suitable for industrial automation, outdoor telemetry, and mobile applications.

Q: How do I install and optimize the antenna for best performance?

A: For optimal performance, mount the antenna vertically with clear line-of-sight to the target receiver. Avoid mounting near large metal surfaces or inside metal enclosures, as this will detune the antenna and increase VSWR. The flexible design allows 90-degree tilting and 360-degree rotation for fine-tuning signal direction. Use a 50¦¸ coaxial cable (such as RG58 or LMR-195) if extending the antenna from the device. Always verify VSWR after installation using a network analyzer or SWR meter to ensure VSWR remains below 2.0 for reliable operation.

Q: What is the expected range with this antenna?

A: Range depends on multiple factors including transmitter power, receiver sensitivity, terrain, and environmental conditions. With a typical 100mW (20dBm) VHF transmitter and -110dBm receiver sensitivity, you can expect line-of-sight range of 1-3 km in open areas. The 3.0 dBi gain provides approximately 2x range improvement compared to a 0 dBi reference antenna. For extended range applications, consider using higher transmit power (within regulatory limits) or deploying repeaters in challenging terrain.