Specifications

FCS1362 Page 9 of 74 © Nov 2010
1.
Definitions and Abbreviations
1.1. Definitions
For the purposes of this Code of Practice, the following definitions apply:
Aerial base A standard base mount that a whip antenna screws on to. The base
incorporates a coaxial lead to connect the antenna to the radio.
Ancillary equipment Any equipment required as part of the installation in addition to the
radio (e.g. voltage converter).
Auxiliary equipment Any equipment which forms additional communication functions.
Audio muting It is a common requirement to facilitate for the in-car entertainment
(ICE) audio to be turned down or switched off when speech from
radio equipment needs to be heard. In addition audio from the radio
equipment can be routed through the ICE audio.
Bee sting Also known as Sportflex, a type of compact flexible roof mounted
whip antenna set at an angle. These are widely used on vehicles for
reception of domestic broadcasts on the in-car entertainment (ICE)
system. Cellular and/or GPS antennas may also be incorporated in
the base of the bee sting.
Bluetooth A standard for short range wireless connectivity, often used for audio
and control functions, but can also be used for low speed data
transfer. (Also see SIM Access Profile)
Cellular Network A radio network that provides coverage with a number of cells
(individual coverage areas) linked together to allow frequent re-use of
radio frequencies and provide greater traffic capacity. GSM, 3G and
TETRA networks are examples of cellular networks 
Clear view area
A space left within treated glass to allow radio frequency to penetrate.
This is typically for a road toll transponder that communicates with a
reader as the vehicle passes through a toll booth.
Earth or ground bonding To reduce EMC emissions levels and improve EMC immunity
performance within a vehicle’s electronic apparatus and systems
these are electrically ‘earth bonded’ to a common earth platform,
normally considered to be the vehicle chassis. The bond resistance
can be tested with a milliohm meter to ensure the installation retains
the bonding.
Equipment supplier The supplier of the equipment to the installer, which may be a dealer,
distributor or manufacturer.
Databus Electrical systems and cabling within the vehicle used for control and
communication between its various electronic modules. A typical
type is the CAN bus.
Ground bond See Earth bonding above.
Ground plane A conducting plane of a minimum dimension proportional to the
wavelength on which a panel mount antenna is fitted.
Ignition feed A source of power that is switched on when the vehicle’s engine is
running. Equipment can use the ignition feed for power as it allows a
reasonable current draw (check the vehicle specification before use).
Compare to ignition sense below.
Ignition sense Ignition sense can be used to determine whether the vehicle’s engine
is running and subsequently equipment can switch on or off as
appropriate. This is different from an ignition feed, see above, as
ignition sense is only a signal line and will not provide adequate