Specifications

FCS1362 Page 34 of 74 © Nov 2010
4.2.4.2. Antennas on non-metallic panels
When the antenna installation is to be carried out on a non-metallic surface:
• a ground plane independent antenna can be fitted directly to any surface (glass fibre etc.) or onto a
mounting bracket which may be supplied by the manufacturer
• a standard antenna can be used with a ground plane fitted to the underside of the panel e.g. a metal
plate complying with dimensions in section 4.2.3.
4.2.4.3. On-glass antennas
On-glass antennas are usually not suitable for vehicles with double-glazed screens, reflective coatings,
armoured or other special glass.
On-glass antennas are not suitable for double glazed vehicle glass, glass with a reflective coating or
windows fitted with fine mesh heater wires unless there is a clear aperture e.g. road toll transponder
window/clear view area.
As per section 2 consult the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations before selecting an on-glass
antenna to ensure the suitability of such installation.
The antenna should be mounted clear of the window heater elements, decorative coating, washer/wiper
and any integral-to-glass receiver aerial if fitted.
Follow antenna manufacturer and/or adhesive guidelines to ensure the performance of the mount. Refer
to manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations particularly with regard to specified temperature
range when fitting in cold weather. It is good practice to ensure that both the glass and the antenna
mounting components are warm before fitting.
Scrupulous cleanliness must be observed and care should be taken not to touch the adhesive surfaces or
the glass after cleaning prior to fixing.
Most adhesive pad material uses a pressure activated adhesive and an even pressure should be applied
to the component being fitted to ensure maximum glass contact and that all air bubbles are removed.
Curing time of the adhesive pad, especially in cold weather, can take up to 24 hours.
If the vehicle will be used at high speed while the adhesive is curing it may be best to not fit the antenna
element to the mount and advise the customer to attach it after the curing time is reached. The radio
equipment must not be used until the antenna mount is fully assembled and it must be ensured that the
customer is informed of this.
4.2.4.4. Specialist antennas
These can include combined (dual or multi frequency), ground plane independent and low profile or
disguised types.
If the antenna includes a broadcast receive function it may incorporate an active amplifier that requires a
12volt positive feed. Dependent on the type of antenna and/or broadcast receiver this can be provided by
one of two different methods:
• Phantom feed - 12volt positive feed via coaxial cable from the broadcast receiver
• Separate feed - a separate 12volt positive feed usually derived from a switched source output
Reference to both the antenna installation instructions and vehicle/receiver handbook may be required to
determine the correct connection method.
Combined antennas may be supplied with a separate diplexer (signal splitter) unit, which should be
securely fixed in a dry location.
4.2.4.5. Covert radiating antennas
Special care should be taken when considering the location of covert radiating antennas:
• Vehicle manufacturer’s advice must be taken into consideration, see section 2.3.1
• The antenna should radiate sufficiently to enable effective communication with the radio network