by FireStik
COMPONENT INFORMATION:
ANTENNA: The antennas used in these kits utilize the same 5/8 wave design as the patented tunable-tip FireFly antennas. The antenna's frequency is altered in order to maintain a desirable center band position when used with the tuned coaxial feedline. Accordingly, these antennas may only be used with the Firestik NGP cable. The core material is a 5/16-inch (0.313" or 8mm) diameter reinforced plastic (fiberglass) tube. FireStik's custom blended formula offers a preferred balance of flexibility and strength. The chrome plated machine brass mounting base has standard 3/8"-24 threads. A high efficiency, voltage increasing helical wind is utilized. Heavy insulated, light-gauge copper wire is used to guard against shorted coils and corrosion induced resistance. The antenna used in these kits have FireStik's patented "no tools required" tunable tip for fast and easy SWR adjustments. The rated wattage for these kits is 100 watts. Each antenna is covered with a static reducing, heavy PVC shrink tubing with both pigment and UV stabilizers mixed in.
COAXIAL FEEDLINE: The seventeen-foot (5.2 M) RG-58 A/U coaxial cable used in these kits is of the highest quality. Due to the vibrations found on all mobile installations, a multi-wire stranded center conductor is used to prevent breakage. Surrounding the center conductor is a long life, flexible polyvinyl insulation. To guard against signal leakage, the center conductor is shielded with a copper wire braid that averages about 95% coverage (versus the industry standard of 70%). The coaxial feedline, besides being the conduit for the signal to reach the antenna, serves as a tuned circuit that creates the necessary counterpoise. If a longer cable length is required, the user may add standard RG-58 A/U cable between the radio and system cable, preferably in lengths that are multiples of nine feet.
MOUNT AND HARDWARE: These kits use FireStik's molded "teardrop" side mount. The black plastic shell has a textured finish to keep it looking nice. All hardware and coax connections are hidden in the inner wall of the vehicle to maintain visual integrity and prevent weather exposure.
