Description
Shakespeare 5215-C-X 3' VHF Antenna | Boat Supply Store
Designed for unobstructed signal transmission from elevated positions, this 3-foot, 3 dB gain VHF marine antenna is a preferred solution for sailboat owners. It features a bend-fed 1/2-wave design within a durable stainless steel body and whip, offering superior performance in a low-profile package. The integrated hermetically sealed copper wire coil ensures longevity, while the included 60 feet of RG-8/X low-loss cable facilitates straightforward installation up the mast. Its DC grounding and omni-directional pattern provide reliable communication across the VHF marine band.
Key Features
- Compact 3' length for minimal windage.
- Optimized 3 dB gain for clear VHF communication.
- Durable stainless steel whip and body for marine environments.
- Low-profile lightweight design ideal for masthead mounting.
- Reliable hermetically sealed coil preventing moisture ingress.
- Standard SO-239 connector for broad compatibility.
- Pre-terminated with 60' RG-8/X low-loss cable.
- Includes L bracket for secure masthead installation.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3' |
| Gain | 3 dB |
| Design | Bend-fed 1/2-wave |
| Whip Material | Stainless Steel |
| Body Material | Stainless Steel |
| Coil Type | Hermetically sealed, tin-plated copper wire |
| Connector | SO-239 |
| Cable Type | RG-8/X low-loss |
| Cable Length | 60' |
| Connector Type (Cable Ends) | PL-259 |
| Mounting Type | Masthead |
| Included Mount | Stainless steel L bracket |
| Antenna Sections | One |
| Frequency Band | VHF marine |
| Bandwidth | 7 MHz |
| SWR | 1.5:1 at 156.8 MHz |
| Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Max Input Power | 50 watts |
| Grounding | DC grounded |
| Radiation Pattern | Omni-directional |
Who This Is For
Sailboat owners and mariners requiring a compact, high-performance VHF antenna specifically engineered for masthead installation. Boaters prioritizing a low-profile, durable solution for reliable communication in demanding marine conditions will find this antenna suitable.
How It Compares
| Feature | Shakespeare 5215-C-X 3' VHF Antenna | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3' | 3', 8' |
| Gain | 3 dB | 3 dB, 6 dB |
| Cable Included | Yes, 60' RG-8/X | No, Yes, 20' RG-58 |
| Mounting Type | Masthead (L bracket included) | Varies (typically deck or rail mount), Deck/Rail mount |
Common Concerns Answered
Some users mention wishing for a longer cable. How does the included cable length affect installation?
The Shakespeare 5215-C-X comes standard with 60 feet of RG-8/X low-loss cable, which is sufficient for many masthead installations on smaller to medium-sized vessels. For longer runs, an extension or different cable may be necessary, but the included length simplifies initial setup for a majority of sailboat applications.
What are potential issues with connectors if not properly sealed?
Improper sealing of the SO-239/PL-259 connectors can lead to moisture ingress, potentially causing corrosion and signal degradation over time. Utilizing marine-grade dielectric grease and heat shrink tubing during installation is strongly recommended to ensure a robust and weather-tight connection.
Is the 3 dB gain sufficient for long-range communication?
A 3 dB gain antenna like the 5215-C-X is optimized for clear, reliable communication within typical line-of-sight ranges for VHF, making it highly effective for coastal cruising and inshore activities. For extreme long-range offshore requirements, a higher gain antenna may be considered, but this model excels in its intended application for sailboats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the gain of the Shakespeare 5215-C-X antenna?
The Shakespeare 5215-C-X antenna offers a 3 dB gain.
What type of cable is included with the Shakespeare 5215-C-X antenna?
It includes 60 feet of RG-8/X low-loss cable.
What is the length of the Shakespeare 5215-C-X antenna?
The antenna is 3 feet in length.
What is the SWR rating for the Shakespeare 5215-C-X antenna?
The SWR rating is 1.5:1 at 156.8 MHz.
Is the Shakespeare 5215-C-X antenna suitable for masthead mounting?
Yes, it is specifically designed for masthead mounting and includes an L bracket for installation.
