
Product Overview
The TX170-XP-200 is a 170MHz VHF sucker antenna with an ABS+PC enclosure, engineered for industrial RF transceivers, wireless data acquisition systems, and remote monitoring terminals. It delivers a measured peak gain of 4.0 dBi and a typical VSWR of 1.46 at 170MHz, covering the 148–173MHz VHF band — a wider operating range than narrowband 155–185MHz alternatives. The durable ABS+PC housing protects the radiator in industrial environments, while the 200cm feeder cable provides generous routing distance between the antenna mounting point and the host device. Updated March 2026.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 148 – 173 MHz (Center: 170 MHz) |
| Peak Gain | 4.0 dBi |
| VSWR | ≤ 1.5 (Typ. 1.46 @ 170 MHz) |
| Impedance | 50 Ω |
| Connector Type | SMA-J (SMA Male, inner pin) |
| Cable Length | 200 cm (2 m) |
| Antenna Housing | ABS + PC (impact-resistant, UV-stable) |
| Radiation Pattern | Omnidirectional (vertical polarization) |
| Max Input Power | 50 W |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +85 °C |
| Compliance | RoHS |
| Last Updated | March 2026 |
Product Details
ABS+PC Enclosed Sucker Base — Impact-Resistant Industrial Housing
Unlike bare copper rod sucker antennas, the TX170-XP-200 encloses the radiator in a durable ABS+PC (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene + Polycarbonate) housing that resists mechanical impact, UV degradation, and chemical exposure in industrial environments. The magnetic sucker base secures the antenna to any ferromagnetic metal surface, simultaneously acting as a ground plane to support the 4.0 dBi gain. The enclosed design also protects the radiator from accidental bending or contact damage during field deployment.
SMA-J Connector with 200cm Long-Reach Feeder Cable
The precision SMA-J (male, inner pin) connector provides a secure 50Ω interface to SMA-K female ports on 170MHz wireless transceivers and industrial modules. The 200cm feeder cable — 67% longer than standard 120cm alternatives — provides maximum routing flexibility for installations where the antenna must be positioned far from the host device, such as on a vehicle roof or equipment cabinet top while the transceiver remains inside the enclosure.
Professional Test Report
Measured with Agilent E5071C vector network analyzer: VSWR = 1.46 @ 170 MHz, confirming ≤1.5 across the 148–173 MHz operating band. Return loss ≥ 14 dB at center frequency.
Ideal Applications
Industrial RF Transceivers
170MHz wireless RF transceivers, industrial data acquisition systems, and SCADA communication nodes requiring a ruggedized external antenna with long cable reach.
Remote Monitoring & Telemetry
Wireless monitoring systems, pipeline telemetry, and remote control terminals in the VHF band where the 200cm cable allows antenna placement at optimal height.
Vehicle & Mobile Deployment
Magnetic roof-mount on fleet vehicles, survey equipment, and mobile command units for 170MHz VHF communication, with the 200cm cable routing inside the vehicle cabin.
Agricultural & Environmental Sensors
Wide-area sensor networks for soil, weather, and irrigation monitoring using 170MHz VHF for improved ground-level propagation in rural and agricultural environments.
Resources
📄 Download Datasheet (PDF)Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between the TX170-XP-200 and TX170-TB-300?
A: Both antennas operate at 170MHz with SMA-J connectors, but differ in key specifications. The TX170-XP-200 has an ABS+PC enclosed housing (impact-resistant, suitable for industrial environments), 4.0 dBi gain, 148–173MHz bandwidth, and a 200cm cable. The TX170-TB-300 uses a bare pure copper rod radiator with an 82mm magnetic base, 5.0 dBi gain, 155–185MHz bandwidth, and a 300cm RG58 cable. Choose XP-200 for ruggedized housing and longer cable reach; choose TB-300 for higher gain and longer cable.
Q: Does the TX170-XP-200 require a metal ground plane?
A: Yes. The magnetic sucker base must be mounted on a ferromagnetic metal surface (steel or iron) to adhere and to function as a ground plane. A larger metal surface improves radiation efficiency — a minimum of 150 × 150mm is recommended for acceptable performance, with 200 × 200mm or larger preferred. Mounting on plastic, wood, or fiberglass will prevent the base from holding and will degrade gain by 2–3 dBi.
Q: Is this compatible with 433MHz or other sub-1GHz modules?
A: No. The TX170-XP-200 is specifically tuned for 148–173MHz. Using it at 433MHz will result in a VSWR exceeding 5.0 and a communication range reduction of 80% or more. For 433MHz LoRa or FSK applications, use a dedicated 433MHz antenna. For 230MHz applications, use the TX230-TB-300. Always match the antenna frequency to your module's operating frequency.
Q: What is the SMA-J connector standard and is it compatible with my device?
A: SMA-J (SMA Male) has an inner pin and outer thread, mating with SMA-K (SMA Female) ports on most industrial wireless modules, transceivers, and APs. Confirm your device has an SMA-K (female) port before ordering. SMA and RP-SMA connectors are not interchangeable — RP-SMA reverses the pin/socket arrangement and is commonly found on consumer Wi-Fi routers, not industrial VHF transceivers.
Q: What is the operating temperature range and is the ABS+PC housing suitable for outdoor use?
A: The TX170-XP-200 is rated for -40°C to +85°C. The ABS+PC housing is UV-stable and impact-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor industrial deployments. For direct rain exposure, ensure the SMA connector junction is protected with self-amalgamating tape or a weatherproof boot to prevent moisture ingress. The housing itself provides mechanical protection that bare copper rod antennas do not offer.