Advanced Aircraft Electronics Inc. Albuquerque, NM 87193 VHF COMMUNICATION ANTENNA VHF NAVIGATION ANTENNA VHF-5T VHF-5I P.O. Box 67438 INSTALLATION MANUAL1.1 INTRODUCTION This installation manual includes all specifications, installations, and procedures necessary for proper installation of the VHF-ST and the VHF-5I antennas, 1.2 PURPOSE OF EQUIPMENT ‘The VHF-ST and SI antennas are airframe mounted VHF antennas providing frequency coverage from 108.0 through 136.0 MHz. ‘They are designed to mount inside of the structure and radiate through the non conducting skin, Caution If the airframe skin is metal or carbon fiber the antenna will not radiate 1.3 DESIGN FEATURES + Flexible fiberglass substrate designed to be bonded to the inner composite airframe surface and ‘conform to the inner skin surface. + Designed to operate without a ground plane. + Composite/element configuration designed to present the proper operating impedance, ‘+ Wideband balun which permits the antenna to be used with either the communication band or the navigation band, * Colored black to distinguish the antenna element from the airframe structure when bonded in place. + Balanced dipole design to provide larger effective antenna aperture. + Suitable for use within tube and fabric irframes. 1.4 EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS section I description Table 1-1 lists the equipment specifications of the VHF-51 and VHF-ST antennas. 1.5 EQUIPMENT SUPPLIED ‘This antenna does not have additional equipment 1.6 EQUIPMENT REQUIRED BUT NOT SUPPLIED The following items are required for proper operation of the VHE-ST and VHE-ST antennas, a. BNC male coaxial connector. . Fifty ohm coaxial cabic. . Adbesive for bonding the antenna to the airframe. Acceptable adhesives are silicone sealant, epoxy resin, and polyester resin, Dimensions Length 43 in, Element width Lin Element thickness | 025 in. Overall width Vin Depth Lin, Weight 23.02. Mounting Adhesive Power 20 watts maximum Frequency range 108 to 136 MHz VSWR 1.6 nominal, Jess than 2 maximum Input impedance 50 ohms Table T-T Antenna Specifications2.1 GENERAL Installation information contained in this section consists of unpacking, and inspection checks, special instructions, installation procedures, and post, installation testing. 2.2 UNPACKING AND INSPECTING ANTENNA Unpack the antenna and inspect for possible shipping damage. All claims for damage should be filed with the transportation company involved. If claims for damage are 10 be filed, save the original packing carton and materials. If no defects are detected, store the antenna flat so that it will relax and uncoil from the shipping position. 2.3 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS ‘The antenna must not be flexed beyond the yield limit of the fiberglass base. ‘The minimum recommended bend radius is six inches. Ifa smaller radius is desired, the fiberglass can be heated with a heat gun until the base material is plastic and will deform to a new shape. Caution If the antenna fiberglass is bent to the point of failure of the resin matrix, the element may be also damaged. An antenna in this condition must not be used. The antenna is broad-band and will operate effectively as a communication or a navigation antenna. The primary difference between the two different functions is the orientation of the antenna’s element. For communication, the primary element axis must be vertical. For navigation, the element's axis must be primarily horizontal In some installations it may not be possible to completely maintain the proper axis, and the element may have to be mounted away from the recommended position by some angle. This type of installation is section II installation approved with angles up to 45° from the recommended position. Additional deviation beyond this angle will result in reduced performance. Figure 2-1 illustrates that the communication antenna can be mounted anywhere in the vertical zone and be functional. Best performance is achieved when it is vertical with slightly reduced performance as it deviates from this position. A position of 45° from the vertical is the maximum recommended angle. Similarly, the navigation antenna should be mounted mostly horizontal in the indicated zone. Here the best operating position is horizontal with the performance degrading as the angle increases. In some installations the airframe structure may have metal components and subsystems which could interact and alter or degrade the performance of the antenna. The following information is presented to allow the installer to select the optimum distance, position, and location that will provide the best antenna performance. ‘The antenna may have to be near a metal airframe structural component. In this configuration the SWR is altered by the interaction between that metal and the antenna. Figure 2-2 shows the typical change caused by this condition, Notice that deviation from the optimum SWR and tuned frequency varies as the parallel distance from the metal and reaches a ‘maximum effect as the distance approaches the quarter wave distance. Some installations may require the antenna element to locate one end near a metal rib or a large metal structure, The angle between this metal and the antenna will determine how well the antenna will function. Figure 2-3 shows that the optimum installation occurs when the angle is 90° and is usable through an angle of slightly over 45°. Installations beyond this 45° angle are not recommended. If the installation is to be within a tube and fabric airframe, care must be observed to minimize theinteraction with the metal structure. Although the antenna will perform satisfactorily, the installing organization may find it necessary to do a temporary installation and test for proper operation. If the installation is unsatisfactory, a new location should be selected and the test repeated. ‘Those airframes with retractable landing gear need to be alert to the metal struts and their location relative to nearby antennas. Be aware of linkages and retract mechanisms location while retracted. ‘This could be factor when considering a wing location, The shielding of the engine and firewall is a dominant influence in many installations. All areas, however, must be examined to confirm the antenna is oriented correctly relative to piano hinges, cables, and push rods. Be alert to pattem shadowing when selecting candidate locations. Figure 2-4 indicates that large ‘metal objects such as an engine could cause insensitive spots or "holes" in the radiation pattem, The antenna pattern is toroidal in shape when free standing. Close proximity of metal structure will change this pattern and the alteration of the SWR is an indication of the alteration of the pattern, Additionally, mounting the antenna in a bent configuration will also change the radiation pattern. Figure 2-5 indicates the change in SWR as a result of a change in the radius of the antenna. This condition exists when the installation requires a communication antenna to be mounted in a small radius fuselage. Although this type of installation is approved, the installer must be alert to the changes in antenna performance that can result when using a small radius. Figure 2-6 is the nominal VSWR that is certified at the time of manufacture. Conditions that are discussed above cause this optimum performance to degrade. 2.4 INSTALLATION The following installation procedures must be performed as described to ensure proper operation and performance. Deviation from these instructions could result in reduced performance. ‘The installation of the antenna should observe polarity. Communication-vertical, and navigation-horizontal. ‘The antenna is positioned on the non-conducting fiberglass or wood and fastened with adhesive along its total length. An alternate attachment can be done with tie wraps. ‘The radiation pattem is broadside all around the antenna with minimum sensitivity off of the ends. With these characteristics, the antenna must be positioned so that its length is either upright for comimunications or across the fuselage for navigation. Mounting the antenna lengthwise (fore-afi) is not recommended and will result in reduced performance. If the installation is in a tube and fabric airframe, the antenna is attached to a strip of spruce or fiberglass and this is then mounted on the tubular airframe wi cushioned clamps. Figure 2-7 illustrates one style of accepted installation, Combined VHF and transponder antennas can be mounted on the same spruce support mount and use the same axis to minimize RF coupling. To do this, mount the elements on the same mount axis (so that the antennas are oriented end-to-end) but are separated as far as possible. This end-to-end configuration minimizes coupling of the transponder to the VHF radio. This configuration is likely to allow some transponder "buzz" to drive in on the VHF audio, and in some cases, may be unacceptable. If installation must be made on the outer skin of the airframe the antenna can be mounted with the coax cable and connector inside. To do so requires that a cone inch square hole be made in the skin of the airframe. Shown in figure 2-8, this hole is use to pass the balun/BNC to the interior. The antenna element is then fastened to the skin's exterior and covered with a protective material such as fiberglass. This installation is not generally recommended but can be used asa last resort when airframe structural condi 2.5 CABLING Recommended cable is RG-58 A/U coax with braided center conductor (Alpha No. 9058AC or Belden No. 8219 or equivalent). The length of cable is determined by the installation. Since this cable has about 5 dB of loss per 100 feet of length, normal installations would see | to 2 4B of cable loss. For installations where weight or wire bundle size is critical, RG-174/U (Belden No. 8216) is approved . This smaller diameter cable has losses of 9 10 10 dB per 100 feet and would be slightly more lossy than the larger cable.‘The antenna connections are made with the BNC connector and fifty ohm cable. The cable should be fastened to the airframe and secured to eliminate failure to vibration fatigue. The VHF mating connector recommended part numbers are shown in the outline diagram and the parts list During installation of the RF coaxial cable observe the following precautions. ‘a. Leave slack in the cable to allow for movement due to air loads and vibration. b. Use RG-S8/U or RGI74/U coax cable. . Fasten the coax cable to the airframe to reduce flexing and possible failure. d. Be certain that the coax connector is properly assembled without opens or short circuits. 2.6 POST INSTALLATION CHECKS. ‘The antenna as shipped has been tested for RF characteristics and normal operation. As installed, it will function without additional tuning or adjustment. Any additional checks should be concemed with the integrity of the installation, and the safe operation of the aircraft. VSWR of the installed antenna should be within the limits shown on Table 2-6. If these values cannot be achieved, refer to subsection 2.3 to ensure that proper ‘mounting procedures were observed. Note: The antenna will read zero ohms (short) when ‘measured with an ohm meter. This reading is normal for the antenna,45° zone for com 45° zone OK. for nav Figure 2-1 Antenna Mounting Angles 130 3 1 ae 1% 2 124 1 12 120 118 os 116 ° 82 ¢ 8 8 Rae eh Distance from Metal (inches) Figure 2-2 VSWR vs, Parallel Distance From Weal 126 3 124 25 12 2g 120 158 118 1 116 os 114 + 0 9 7 8 4% 3 2 Angle Figure 2-3 Angle From Metal Changes SWR and Resonant FrequencyFigure 2-4 Possible Shadowing ‘Artem pot to) Figure 2-5 Antenna VSWR vs. Element Bend Radius Frequency Figure 2-6 Typical Antenna VoWRClamp on both yy oy oe to airframe. Wood mounting base ——_» f Antenna attached to bas: Figure 2-7 Antenna Mount for Tube & Fabyie Airframe | Hole for balun & | connector Inner Skin Element o: ' ' 1 I H H I Skin I Figure 2-8 Retrofit from the OutsideTSE] TAS SWS] vizh v onoNavyo onanaa | 326 SeUINNO BUUeUY S-4HA zu 2E089 OM WOSSHOLS Hitbxea J SHROLRTOIF IFOETIOE DO TUOND a = (BN) wouvoroaese wre | nousccsa | “Egg | apa] cae bLl-O4 HOS ANSTYAINOS HO [02d HALSINOUL HOLDANNOD ONG b 8G-DY Hod - LNSTVAINOS HO 1-021 HALSdWOHL HOLDANNOO DNA‘ AISHOY ‘SNILONGNOS-NON DNISN LNAOA "2 NOLDSHIG HSH «9 SLINIOd ANY LY SMIGYH GNBE IVA “| ‘SaLON 209 ONE HOLOENNOD / a = i >——_— «Seo Ij AVN NOD 15-4HA + | fy AYN NOD 1S -4HA a 7 FE [Srvayasay] [ORS WOMAOSIT aur | ‘SHOTSIASS3.1 GENERAL, ‘The antenna has no field adjustments or repair procedures. The element is embedded within the fiberglass substrate and if this section is bent beyond the yield point of the material failure will occur. Failure of the antenna will require its replacement, VSWR measurements of the installed antenna can indicate proper functionality. If degradation has occurred during normal operation of the system and the antenna is suspect, confirm that recently installed equipment or metallic components have not been located in a place that teract and cause pattern and VSWR changes. The antenna can be painted with nonmetallic paints, Additional technical assistance is available by calling 1-800-758-8632 section lll maintenance and repairTES [Taw SwRI biz v a aaa bLL-DYHOd- LNSTYAINOS HO $-02 714 HALBSNOWL HOLBNNOD ONG ‘46-5U HO ~ INSTYAINOS HO fe eon nae aena 1-021d HALS4NOUL YOLIINNOD ONGC sw BAISSHOY 2089 OM WESSHOLE = SxILone@oo-NoWOMSA LNT "2 ALLbxog SONUOLIIOED LPOEBITE DI RTCADY an = .9SIANIOd ANY.LY SIHGYS GNSS IAL vewaacscomesen| rouse | “RD | wea] eee a * t | AVN NOD 1S-4HA + 7 -_—— | 309 ONG S20 wwe C < uy AYN® NOD 1S -4HA awh 4 a T- — [Srvajaaay OW ore WOMAOSIT 7a Enr| ‘SNOISTASTE4.1 GENERAL ‘These guidelines are presented to help select the ‘optimum antenna location in an custom all composite airframe or tube and fabric airframe. Keep in mind that the performance of the antenna will not suddenly change (like work and not work) as the installation locations move. Some changes are gradual, and in some cases, may ot be noticed during most flight operations. It is even possible to violate these guidelines and have good communications with the tower on the ground then lose communications 5 miles away. ‘The accompanying diagrams are to be used as guidance in the final selection of the optimum location. Each airframe will have various metal components which could affect the operation of the antennas, so you should consider what compromises can be accepted to trade convenience of installation over antenna performance. ‘The overall airframe sketches show generalized locations which provide good performance. ‘The shielding of the engine and firewall is the dominant influence over most installations. Areas indicated as good and best are recommended locations for all internal antenna locations. ‘These areas, however, must be examined to confirm the antenna is oriented correctly relative to piano hinges, cables, and push rods. ‘Those airframes with retractable landing gear need to be alert to the metal struts and their location relative to nearby antennas, Be aware of linkages and retract mechanisms location while retracted. This could be a factor when considering a wing location The installation location of the antenna can be ‘anywhere in the locations identified in the airframe but proper operation is generally achieved based upon three major considerations. A) Polarity orientation B) Distance from metal components section IV custom aircraft guidelines ©) View 4.2 POLARITY To observe polarity it will be necessary to position the antenna within +/- 45° of the correct orientation (figure 2-1), This is vertical for communication and horizontal for navigation. ‘The drawings illustrate that the com antenna can be mounted anywhere in the triangle and be functional. Best performance is achieved when it is vertical with slightly reduced performance as it deviates from this position. A. position of 45° from the vertical is the maximum, recommended angle. Similarly, the navigation antenna should be mounted mostly horizontal or in the triangle. Here the best operating position is horizontal with the performance degrading slightly as the angle increases. 4.3 DISTANCE FROM METAL ‘When considering metallic objects near the antenna, be aware of items whose major dimension is about 12 inches and larger. Close proximity to things like battery, radio, rudder pedals, and large hydraulic actuators should be avoided. It is permissible to locate the antenna 18" or more from these. The drawing shows a metal push rod and possible antenna locations. Shown are an antenna which is 18" or more from a parallel metal push rod. When the antenna and rod are not parallel, the distance between the two can be much closer. It is possible to place the antenna near or even ‘on a metal rod but only when the angles between the ‘wo are approaching 90°,CAUTION! PARALLEL METAL 7a ———- ——» KEEP THIS ANGLE LARGE FROM METAL SKINS MAINTAIN DISTANCE OKTO cross Be aware that as the antenna is located closer to the engine, the radiation pattern becomes more blocked (figure 2-4). This is a factor when considering the. antenna’s view to the outside world. The shadowing could cause areas of reduced this condition is not as significant as metal objects. ‘The above sketches indicate dos and don'ts when the installation is near control rods and cables. The top sketch indicates that when a parallel cable or rod is near maintain 18 inch or greater separation, The second and third sketches indicates that if the angle between the rod or the skin is 30° or more, on end of the antenna can almost touch the metal rod. If the rod crosses the antenna, The two can be close enough to almost touch.. ‘These sketches show, in a generalized nature, where the better locations for antennas could be on most airframes. Each one will be different because of the wide variety of equipment selections and locations. T Notice that the best locations are always distanced from the engine and the major metal components. radio performance in some long range communications. The drawing shows that shadowing can change the operation of the antenna. Large objects such as the engine and firewall need 6 to 8 minimum [({ POOR separation. Smaller objects can be closer. Crew (people) in the airframe do have an influence on the antenna’s pattern, but not BESTAdvanced Aircraft Engineering warrants its antennas for as long as the original purchaser owns the aircraft on which it is installed. Should the antenna fail or become defective, return the antenna with proof of original ownership to Advanced Aircraft Electronics and it will be repaired or replaced free of charge. This warranty does not cover the cost of additional components, connected avionies, nor the labor required to remove and replace the antenna or components. This warranty gives you specific rights, You may have other rights which vary from state to state, ‘The foregoing obligation is Advanced Aircraft Electronic’s sole liability under this or any implied warranty and under no circumstances shall Advanced Aircraft Plectronies be liable for any incidental or consequential! damages.Advanced Aircraft Electronics Inc. ANTENNA CERTIFICATION VHF Antenna Number 9956 49-Mar-10 105-1125 «1201275135 1425 180 Frequency MHz This is to certify that the antenna identified above was manufactured, tested, and inspected to conform to all AAE specifications and that AAE certifies that this VSWR plot is the measured free standing antenna performance at the time of manufacture, We further cerlify that all applicable certification, ‘manufacturing records, and inspection and test reports are ‘maintained on file and available for customer/govemment review upon request. Wh E(