GPS antenna for car radio and its installation

How to choose and install the right GPS antenna for your car radio

The GPS antenna for a car radio is designed to search for radio waves, television signals, and support navigation systems for fixing the geographic coordinates of the car while passing a route. The devices are divided into external and internal; according to their design, the models are produced as dipole or asymmetrical. Fastening is carried out using a magnetic, overhead, mortise method.

Description of antenna operation

The antenna for the radio is part of the wireless search for radio and television signals, messages through the navigation system of geographic coordinates and vehicle speed. The devices are used to convert electromagnetic waves into an electrical signal, which is amplified by the receiving antenna housing. Important characteristics of the device include the satellite signal reception distance, bandwidth, and number of channels.

The operating principle of the device is to determine and transfer signals from satellites to the car after processing and conversion to an intermediate frequency. The conductor is connected to the on-board equipment of the machine.

The device provides continuous and high-quality signals to the car radio and video recorder.

The device is designed to be combined into a single system with video cameras, navigation, and parking sensors to solve complex problems for the driver of a vehicle.

The advantages of the device are compactness, ergonomics, versatility, easy installation, and long service life.

Types of antennas for radio tape recorders

Today there are many devices for improving the signal, the best of them are car antennas, which can be:

External. Such devices are used to receive television and radio signals. A TV antenna for a car radio is a passive device that is exposed to the environment, but it has a fairly high sensitivity. Because of this, it is necessary to equip the antenna with an additional signal amplifier (adapter). In addition, many note the inconvenience of installing an external device on the car body.

Internal. Devices of this type are active GPS antennas, which are usually mounted on the windshield of a car. The device is equipped with a built-in amplifier and can be used with a wide variety of radio models.

GPS modules are very popular among car enthusiasts. The operating principle of such antennas is to receive satellite signals, convert them into an intermediate frequency and subsequent processing. Internal antennas are connected to the vehicle's on-board system. The main advantages of such devices are: small size, ease of installation, “confident” signal level and long service life. Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting only the rather high cost of such antennas.

When choosing an antenna for a radio, you need to take into account many characteristics, including signal reception range, device power and much more. The place where you plan to install the device is also important.

Classification

GPS antennas for car radios are divided into:

External devices are designed to search for radio and television signals. The device is highly sensitive and is mounted on the outside of the machine. It is necessary to take into account the exposure of the device to precipitation and changes in temperature conditions. The equipment is equipped with an adapter that increases the search parameters for radio frequencies. External devices are attached to the body, trunk, roof, bumper or fenders of the car.

In-cabin devices are mounted on the windshield of a car. The equipment is equipped with amplifiers inside the housing. The device is universal, suitable for different types of car radios, does not require complex installation work, but is very expensive.

Devices are divided into passive and active.

An active GPS antenna is a standard device, the system of which is supplemented by an internal signal amplifier. The devices are sensitive, accurately and quickly detect a large number of radio and television waves. The device reduces the amount of interference and noise when playing music and videos.

The functionality of a passive type device depends on the volume of electromagnetic radiation in the area. If there is a small amount of interference, the reception of the radio signal will be stable, but if there are electrical appliances within the range (in cities), the reception accuracy will decrease.

By type of design, devices are divided into:

A device with an asymmetrical housing is mounted perpendicular to the plane of radio frequency propagation. The equipment is equipped with a telescopic structure, consisting of parts that are unfolded manually or using an electric drive. The antenna includes a pin equipped with a spiral at the base.

Dipole devices are equipped with 2 rods located symmetrically. The devices are mounted in a horizontal position. The type of equipment is optimal for placement inside the car.

Antenna classification

3G antenna: types and characteristics

GPS antennas are classified as: active or passive, built-in or external. Experts focus on the fact that the antenna plays an important role in this system. Even a powerful device, but with an incorrectly selected antenna, can show parameters much lower than the passport data.

Active GPS antennas are a standard antenna with a signal amplifier built into the circuit. They are often used in receivers where there are no internal devices, but there is a terminal for connecting an external antenna. The active elements of the system are more sensitive, namely the signal level to the surrounding noise is higher, in addition, there is a decrease in interference.

A passive GPS antenna is characterized by the surrounding electromagnetic radiation: the higher it is, the weaker the signal will reach the receiver. It is recommended to install active antennas in the car, with a larger amplitude; the choice depends on the installed receiver and the presence of an antenna amplifier.

Active GPS antennas

Manufacturers of GPS antennas offer customers a large selection of internal and external models of these devices; there are differences in supply voltage, from 3 volts to 5 volts; in addition, the devices also have additional bandpass filters for removing a signal (cutting) that is outside the desired range.

The car GPS antenna for the navigation unit has a frequency range of 1575.42 plus or minus 3 MHz. Taking into account the operation of the bandpass filter, this results in 10 MHz, with a gain of 4 Decibels and a power dissipation of one watt. These devices show stable operation under the following temperature fluctuations: minus 40 degrees – plus 100 degrees Celsius, humidity is considered 100%.

In addition to a large selection of antennas, manufacturers offer different configurations for them according to cable brands and types of connectors, which makes it possible to use them with different types of devices. An important indicator in the configuration of the cable is its length; now it reaches five meters. Optimization of antennas is carried out according to various indicators, these are: gain, reduction in energy consumption, reduction in the cost of devices, reduction in the overall dimensions of devices.

How to properly install a GPS antenna in a car

Before installation, it is important to determine the optimal location for the antenna. Experts recommend placing the devices on the roof of the car or on other surfaces of the equipment. An antenna located perpendicularly encounters less interference and transmits the signal quickly. It is optimal to place the device under the roof, on the top of the windshield of the car.

The signal from the device on the rear window or in the lower block of the windshield arrives with less intensity, but the device will be preserved better. It is not recommended to place the device near lamps, because reception quality will decrease due to electromagnetic radiation.

Installation

GPS module for car radio

A common place to install an antenna is on the roof of a car. This is the first thing that comes to mind for a person who decides to install it himself. But there can be many places for mounting a GPS antenna, and the roof in this case is not the only option.

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Let's consider several options:

It is advisable to install the GPS antenna in the upper part of the windshield, facing the sky. Here such an antenna will encounter the least number of obstacles in order to receive reliable reception of signals from the satellite;

On the windshield

• The lower area of ​​the windshield can also be chosen as an installation location, only here the antennas will have less potential;
• The same effect as the lower area of ​​the windshield will be achieved by installing an antenna on the rear window;
• Whatever the disadvantages of the above-described places for installing antennas, they are considered as the most favorable installation options. But installing a GPS antenna near the street lights is a completely bad decision.

GPS module for car radio

So, there can be several ways to mount an antenna; everyone chooses their own option individually. As for the method of fastening, it can also be different.

Understanding the importance of the correct zone for installation is important so that there are no problems in the future. A few words of general information about the principle of operation of the satellite navigator will help to understand a lot:

Each navigation satellite transmits radio signals. They are received, amplified, converted to intermediate frequency, and then further processing continues.

• As a rule, the navigator (see 1 din car radio with navigator: device and installation) knows the coordinates of several satellites and the distances to them. But it's not that simple. To solve this navigation problem, it is necessary to determine 4 unknown quantities: these are three known geometric quantities and the offset of the receiver clock;
• Interestingly, to increase GPS accuracy, the navigator tries to use as many satellites as possible;
• The GPS antenna acts as a component that helps the navigator better receive signals, but even the most seemingly insignificant diffraction effects can be significant.

GPS receiver for car radio

Scheme for receiving GPS satellite antennas depending on installation

As the diagram indicates, the car body is not an obstacle to receiving signals from the satellite. The antenna under the windshield sees and receives the same satellites as on the roof. As for the antenna between the seats, it is only inferior to a couple of satellites. It turns out, in the end, that the geometric factor does not depend on the installation of the antenna? But, not everything is so simple. Only one thing can be said for sure: it is better to install a satellite antenna on the windshield, and not too deep into the cabin.

Types of fastening

GPS receiver for car radio

Satellite dishes can have different types of mounting:

• The mortise mount of the antenna involves fixing it through a hole that is made by drilling in the body. In this case, the edges of the holes must be treated with an anti-corrosion substance;
• Magnetic mounting means installing the antenna anywhere on the body, depending on your own preferences;
• The pin mount involves fixing the antenna to the car drain;
• Finally, internal mounting, which involves installing an antenna on the windshield, will require mandatory treatment of the glass with a special liquid.

Operation setup and connection

After installing the GPS antenna, you need to connect and configure the device. Connects connections with external sources and control wire with marking code AMP-CON. The gray cable with the letter BRAKE regulates the disconnection from watching TV and DVD programs when the car is moving.

You can do the setup work yourself according to the instructions from the manufacturer, which contains software support for the model (OZI, Navitel, IGO). The necessary programs are recorded on the SD card. The IGO8 system requires setting the resolution for the radio to at least 480x234 px.

Then the map is inserted into the device, and the “Options” section is selected in the main GPS menu. In the settings, the required program is selected, the path to the SD card is indicated, and the navigation program is turned on. After testing the settings and operation of the device, the device will determine the location based on geographic coordinates and allow you to connect radio or video

Connection and setup

Before connecting a homemade antenna for a car radio, you need to make sure that the cable is not damaged. It is then routed under the car's dashboard to the radio. If the cable is inserted into the cabin through a hole in the roof, then all holes are carefully sealed. The cable plug is inserted into the car receiver.

If the receiving device is assembled correctly, then all available stations should be received clearly and reliably without on-air debris. The power wire of the active antenna is connected to the blue and white stripe wire of the car radio or directly to the battery via a switch.

The GPS antenna is used to determine with special devices the coordinates of the area in which a person is located at a given specific moment. Recently, our country has its own development in this area - the GLONASS system. Modern GPS receivers, without additional clarification systems, have sufficient accuracy to determine location - in the region of 3 meters.

Possible problems and their solutions

When installing the device, interference may occur when receiving a signal in urban areas, mountainous areas, in dense traffic, etc. If there is no clear recognition of information, the sensor records inaccurate data or stops working.

Experts recommend changing the location of the antenna by installing the device on a window or roof. The type and quality of the vehicle must be taken into account. Some car models have tinted windows with metallic inclusions that block the radio signal.

How to install and connect correctly

Installing a GPS antenna takes little time and requires a minimum amount of effort. Despite this, the work must be done efficiently and in compliance with all safety rules. Not only an experienced car owner, but also a beginner can install the antenna correctly in a car.

1. Magnetic. A universal option that allows you to attach the antenna to any metal part of the car. To install, just find a suitable place and attach the magnet to the vehicle body.
2. Overhead. In this case, the device is attached to the drain or rear bumper. This is done using special brackets and threaded connections.
3. Mortise. Having chosen this installation option, you need to make a hole in the vehicle body. This place is treated with a special compound that protects the metal from corrosion. Then carefully thread the antenna into the hole and secure it on both sides using a threaded connection.
4. Interior. Before installation, the part of the inner surface of the windshield where the antenna will be attached is treated with a special compound. After this, the device is securely fixed in the selected position.

Setup and operation

After completing installation of the device, you need to configure it. You can do this work yourself or with the help of a specialist. In most cases, car owners choose the first option, which allows them to save money and take into account all personal preferences.

1. All necessary programs are recorded on the SD card.
2. Select the desired extension.
3. The SD card is inserted into a special slot and the device is turned on.
4. From the main menu go to the “Options” tab.
5. There they select the desired program and write the path to its location on the memory card.
6. Include the installed program.
7. Select the necessary parameters and test the device.

Possible problems and their solutions

Any job can be accompanied by some problems. If you know how to eliminate them, you can cope with any difficulty as quickly as possible.

Tips for choosing an antenna

When purchasing an antenna, you must take into account the technical characteristics of the device, the range of possible signals, the power of the device, location, type of mounting allowed in the car model, etc.

It is necessary to determine the necessary functions:

The devices can operate to receive one type of signal or function in a complex manner. Multifunctional devices are practical, ergonomic, and save the cost of equipping the machine.

In terms of cost, products fall into the budget, medium and high categories. The choice of antenna is affected by the type of radio for the car. For simple equipment, you can purchase an average-cost antenna. A radio with additional sensors requires a combination antenna. The cost of average quality antennas is 2-2.5 thousand rubles.

It is important to determine the technical characteristics of the device and the signal reception range. Devices can be simple or equipped with a Bluetooth system; the technology can be combined (GPS/GSM). Selection includes determining the area for mounting equipment in accordance with the machine model. The determining criterion is the device’s access to the Internet.

It is necessary to pay attention to the equipment included in the device. For comfortable operation, the cable length is taken into account. The element must be shielded, with a large cross-sectional area and the length required for the car model (passenger car, truck).

Source

Rating of the best antennas for car radios: radio and GPS, indoor and outdoor

An antenna for a car radio is a device that allows the multimedia center in the car to receive radio, television and GPS signals even at a great distance from the towers. There are many types of them and each has its own characteristics. For example, in-cabin models are compact, easy to install, but have poor signal reception. At the same time, active outdoor antennas can even ensure watching movies in a car outside the city. Let each reader choose for himself which car radio antenna he needs, and we will look at the best models of all common modifications.

TOP of the best external antennas for car radios

External antennas are attached to the car body and provide excellent reception almost anywhere in Russia. They can be installed in place of the standard device or in specially created grooves on the car (you need to do it yourself), and there are also analogues with magnetic fastenings. Such an antenna for a radio also improves the appearance of the car, which is why many car enthusiasts liked them.

The best external antennas for radios are:

Triad VA 63-01

This is a domestic product that can be purchased at most large parts stores. The model is distinguished by high-quality signal reception and sufficient reliability (it is almost impossible to accidentally break it). Another important advantage is the low price of all Triad products. This antenna is a small rod 40 cm long, which in terms of receiving properties is comparable to its 70-100 cm counterparts. The reason for the increased efficiency is a special system for winding the wire onto the base. In practice, Triad BA 63-01 offers better reception than other “shortened” models.

Reviews: “I work at a service station and almost all owners of VAZ, GAZ, Daewoo, Chevrolet, Kia, Ford, Renault, I recommend installing the Triad VA 63-01 antenna. She gets her money's worth by entertaining passengers during the long journey."

MEGAJET ML-145 MAG-125

One of the medium-sized antennas, which is in great demand among car enthusiasts. All because of the simple fastening. With a relatively high height of 1.42 m, it is securely held by a magnet, so there is no need to damage the car body if it does not have space for a standard antenna. It can be easily removed and installed and only takes a minute. The model is distinguished by a decent SWR value of 1.1, provided that it is installed correctly (preliminary installation of adhesive foil is required). In terms of workmanship and reliability of fastening, there are no complaints.

Reviews: “I have enough for clear reception in the city and within 40 km from it. Excellent modulation and normal SWR are all you need from an antenna, and the MEGAJET ML-145 MAG-125 delivers.”

Rating of interior antennas for radio

If there is no desire to install an external antenna or it is simply not needed, since the driver is in the city almost all the time, internal models will be preferable.

TOP best indoor antennas:

Triad 001 Mini

We have before us the most affordable active antenna for a car radio from Triada, capable of providing normal reception of radio waves at VHF and FM frequencies. True, it only works effectively within the city. The antenna is easy to install inside the cabin, and you can even do it yourself without special tools or special skills. The key advantage of the device is its compactness, although low price and excellent signal reception within the city are no less important.

Reviews: “The antenna amplifier for the car radio compensates for the shortcomings of the dimensions, so the Triad 001 Mini catches the radio with a bang. The radio began to find even those stations that I didn’t know about before.”

Rexant RX-502

The interior car antenna is distinguished by its ability to receive not only radio, but also television signals. The active device operates in the AM / FM / VHF / MV / UHF / DVB-T2 bands. The vibration-free model copes well with receiving both analogue and digital television. Installation is simple - using adhesive tape on the windshield or rear window. Due to the presence of an amplifier, the antenna maintains high-quality signal reception at a distance of up to 120 km from the transmitter. The model also requires a separate connection to the vehicle's power supply.

Reviews: “I liked 2 things about this antenna: very simple installation and a stable signal.”

Ural MAGNIT

An active internal antenna differs from analogues in its ability to capture the magnetic component of a radio frequency signal and process it. This had a positive effect on signal reception, because it was practically not drowned out by the surrounding terrain and buildings. Structurally, the device is very simple - a regular frame with a winding, so the installation and use procedure does not cause problems, and there are also no questions about reliability. Due to this device, the efficiency of the antenna is 40-80%. An advantage of the model is a 5 m long cable, which is enough for cars of any size and body configuration.

Cost of radio antennas

If we talk about the price of the issue, then the cheapest will be a regular whip antenna, which can be purchased in the range of 300-500 rubles. Apart from the SMA connector and a two-meter cable, it doesn’t come with anything interesting.

An active GPS/GLONASS antenna, for example, Beyondoor ANT GPS BY-GPS/GLONASS07, will cost more, about 1,400 rubles. But at the same time, the device is equipped with a built-in 27 dB amplifier and allows you to connect a car radio, navigator or hybrid device.

Another model with the Glonass system is the Shark Fin FM/AM/GPS/GLONASS for 6,000 rubles. In addition to the SMA connector, the device also allows you to connect a DIN plug. But, there is no amplifier in this model, since the signals travel over a wide frequency range with low noise

If the amplifier is important to you, then you can pay attention to another “Shark Fin” V-SMA3M-2FM-TV for 9,000 rubles. With a gain of 4 dB, the antenna produces a decent signal

List of active radio antennas for car radios

Active radio antennas are those that have signal amplifiers, that is, they are better suited for comfortable listening to the radio not only in the city, but also within the region.

The best active antennas for radios:

Bosch Autofun pro

A small active antenna for the car interior from a well-known manufacturer, which has the advantage of being hidden. True, like its analogues, the signal strongly depends on the distance between the “antennae” and the car body. To choose a suitable installation point, it is better to try several different positions and choose the best one through experience. If installed optimally, you can expect to receive a signal without interference at a distance of up to 70 km from the city. Comes with everything you need for installation.

Reviews: “The original antenna was rotten, so I started looking for a replacement. I bought models from both AliExpress and Triad, but this one is the best so far. Others caught poorly, the video recorder created interference.”

Triad BA 69 ELECTRONIC

A built-in external antenna with an amplifier, which is used to replace the standard analogue on Volkswagen, Opel, Chevrolet, Skoda and other cars. The length is only 40 cm and this is already enough for good signal reception. Can be considered one of the best antennas in terms of price/quality ratio. Thanks to the anti-noise winding, it works without interference. The flexible and fairly durable fiberglass rod is resistant to aggressive external environments, and therefore has a long service life.

Reviews: “I installed it on Captiva. Finally the radio started working normally. The only problem is that I have to resolder the connectors.”

ALAN ML-145

A universal car antenna operating in the 27 MHz CB range, 1.45 m long. Supplied with a magnetic mount, so it does not require violating the integrity of the car body. The magnet power is sufficient to securely fix the antenna, including for driving at high speeds. Due to the fact that the model comes with a 3.5 m cable, it is easy to install in most cars. The rod is made of stainless steel, so it is resistant to corrosion and chemicals used during washing.

Reviews: “In general, Alan and Sirio antennas are of good workmanship, and the ML-145 is no exception. We sell them regularly, there have been no complaints from buyers.”

The best GPS antenna for car radio

A GPS antenna for a car radio helps improve signal reception for transmitting data about the vehicle's location. It is especially useful for people who travel a lot.

Blackview X200 GPS

In-car antenna designed for mounting on a car dashboard or glass. It is distinguished by good workmanship and the ability to significantly improve GPS signal reception. It works even in relatively distant regions with partial coverage area. The data displayed is accurate, so there are no problems with use. In terms of build quality and ease of mounting, there are no comments either.