Performance Enhanced for Broadband Mini-Bicon Antenna

CEDAR PARK, Texas, May 15, 2012 ETS-Lindgren announced performance improvements for its popular Model 3180 broadband mini-bicon antenna. The new antenna, Model 3180B, now offers optimal performance across the frequency range of 30 MHz 1 GHz (cage elements) and 30 MHz 3 GHz (cone elements). Additionally, the 3180B covers all of the VHF and UHF bands, making it ideal for spectrum monitoring of FM, TV and some cellular phones. The antenna features uniquely designed elements that result in an omnidirectional pattern. Users will appreciate its small size for harmonic monitoring when testing per IEC 61000-4-3. The Model 3180B may also be used for free space NSA (FSNSA) testing in fully anechoic chambers as well as test bench testing per CISPR 16-1-4.We enhanced the performance of this antenna in response to customer demand, said Dr. Vince Rodriguez, ETS-Lindgrens Senior Principal Antenna Design Engineer. With its small size and usage flexibility, engineers and test technicians were increasingly asking for broader performance so it can be used for additional applications. Now this workhorse antenna covers the traditional frequency range for EMC measurements, plus the VHF and UHF bands, added Dr. Rodriguez.Dennis Lewis, Associate Technical Fellow at Boeing in Seattle, Washington, commented, "The small size of this antenna allows us to use it in areas that were previously difficult to place traditional antennas. Now we have greater usage flexibility while maintaining good performance over a broader frequency range. Thats a huge benefit when considering how expensive test time can be."Optional mounting systems are available for the Model 3180B antenna, including a tripod mount and a rear stinger mount. The stinger mount permits on-axis rotation/polarization. The back plate has four each 3/8 16 thread mounting holes for custom mounts. All production units are individually calibrated at ETS-Lindgrens A2LA accredited lab and are shipped with a manual, actual antenna factors and a signed Certificate of Calibration Conformance.For complete information, view the datasheet on Model 3180B.