Description
Shakespeare 4ft AIS Antenna | Boat Supply Store
Achieve superior signal integrity for crucial vessel tracking and safety with this antenna specifically engineered for Automatic Identification System (AIS) transceivers. It delivers a 3dB gain across the VHF AIS Marine Band, ensuring reliable communication. The robust construction includes a silver-plated outer conductor and copper inner conductor, alongside DC grounding for enhanced performance and durability in demanding marine environments.
Key Features
- Dedicated for AIS bandwidth optimization
- Reliable 3dB gain for clear signal transmission
- Durable silver-plated outer conductor
- Pure copper inner conductor
- Corrosion-resistant stainless steel mounting sleeve
- Standard SO-239/PL-259 connector compatibility
- Enhanced signal integrity with DC Grounding
- Omnidirectional coverage for 360° communication
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4ft |
| Gain | 3dB |
| Max Power Input | 50W |
| SWR | < 1.5:1 at 162 MHz |
| Bandwidth (within 2.0:1 VSWR) | 5 MHz |
| Frequency | VHF AIS Marine Band |
| Grounding | DC Grounded |
| Polarization | Vertical |
| Connector | SO-239/PL-259 |
| Mounting Sleeve Material | Stainless Steel |
| Outer Conductor Material | Silver-plated |
| Inner Conductor Material | Copper |
Who This Is For
Marine vessel owners and operators requiring reliable AIS communication, including recreational boaters, commercial fishermen, and offshore sailors.
How It Compares
| Feature | Shakespeare 4ft AIS Antenna | Comar AIS |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4ft | Approx 5ft, Approx 4ft |
| Gain | 3dB | 3dB, 3dB |
| Connector | SO-239/PL-259 | SO-239, SO-239 |
| Bandwidth (within 2.0:1 VSWR) | 5 MHz | Not Specified, Not Specified |
Common Concerns Answered
Is the price justified compared to general VHF antennas?
This antenna is specifically engineered for the unique bandwidth requirements of AIS transceivers, ensuring superior signal integrity and communication reliability critical for vessel tracking. While general VHF antennas may be less expensive, they do not offer the specialized tuning necessary for optimal AIS performance.
Is a dedicated AIS antenna necessary, or will a multi-purpose VHF antenna suffice?
A dedicated AIS antenna like the Shakespeare Phase III is optimized for the specific AIS frequencies and bandwidth, providing more reliable and consistent transmission and reception of AIS signals compared to multi-purpose VHF antennas which may not perform as optimally across all required bands.
What are common user complaints regarding this antenna?
While generally positive, some users find the included mounting hardware basic and may opt for more robust solutions for their specific installation. Occasional reports of signal degradation in extremely rough weather are noted, a common characteristic across many antenna types under severe environmental conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the gain of the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna?
The Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna provides a gain of 3dB.
What is the maximum power input for the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna?
The maximum power input for this antenna is 50W.
What type of connector does the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna use?
The Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna utilizes an SO-239/PL-259 connector.
Is the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna DC grounded?
Yes, the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna features DC grounding for enhanced performance and safety.
What is the bandwidth of the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna?
The antenna offers a 5 MHz bandwidth within a 2.0:1 VSWR.
