Frequently Asked Questions
As more radios transition to digital signals, it’s essential to use antennas designed for these advanced systems.
Here’s how digital antennas improve your communication:
Maximum Signal Range
Brass radiators ensure optimal digital RF signal performance for clearer and more dependable communication.
Unmatched Power Efficiency
With an outstanding VSWR of less than 1.5:1, Digital Antenna maximizes radiated power for superior performance.
Future-Proof Technology
As more radios move to digital, Digital Antennas are built to keep your antenna system compatible with evolving technology, so you’re always ahead of the curve.
Stay Connected, when it matters most
By upgrading to Digital Antenna, you are experiencing products designed for the digital world and will experience superior communication.
When comparing analog and digital RF ranges, digital RF generally has a longer effective range than analog RF due to its ability to correct errors through digital signal processing, allowing for clearer reception even at the edge of the coverage area. While analog signals tend to degrade significantly as they reach the maximum range, this results in noise and distortion.
Key Points:
- Signal quality – Digital signals maintain better quality at the edge of the range compared to analog signals, which degrade significantly with distance.
- Error correction – Digital systems use error correction mechanisms to recover data lost due to noise, enhancing signal clarity at longer distances.
As more radios transition to digital signals, it’s important to choose an antenna designed for these modern systems. Digital Antenna builds antennas to give you clearer, more reliable communication over longer distances, even in challenging environments.
Yes, please use the Custom Antenna Contact Form and we will contact you. Our antennas are made in Sunrise, FL. The lead time is usually 2–3 days to build the antenna and ship to you.
Excess coaxial cable should never be coiled or randomly bundled, as this can create unwanted inductance, signal distortion, and interference that degrade performance. Coiling the cable—especially in tight loops—can act like a choke or inductor, reflecting RF energy back toward the antenna and reducing both transmit and receive efficiency.
Best Practice:
- Avoid tight coils or loops – These can cause signal reflection and power loss.
- Route extra cable in a large, loose “figure eight” pattern – Approximately 12–18 inches per loop.
- Secure gently with soft ties – Prevents damage to shielding and keeps the cable stable.
- Run the full cable length if possible – Or order a custom-length cable assembly from Digital Antenna to eliminate excess.
Proper cable management ensures maximum signal strength, minimal loss, and long-term reliability of your antenna system.
The main benefits of a 4′ VHF antenna compared to an 8′ VHF antenna depend on usage, installation preferences, and performance needs.
Benefits of a 4' VHF Antenna Over an 8' Antenna:
- More Compact & Easier to Mount – Ideal for smaller boats, T-tops, and limited-space installations.
- Less Wind Resistance & Flexing – Reduces wind drag and is less prone to bending or breaking.
- Better for Close-Range Communication – Works well for inshore and nearshore use.
- More Versatile Installation Options – Perfect for center consoles, sailboats, and smaller vessels.
Key Trade-Offs:
- 4’ antenna = lower gain (4.5dB), more spherical radiation pattern, better for rocking boats but shorter range.
- 8’ antenna = higher gain (6dB), longer range, ideal for offshore and larger vessels.
If you need better range and offshore performance, choose the 8′. If you want compact size and versatility, the 4′ is ideal.
For marine antennas, mounts, and ferrules, 316 stainless steel is the premium choice because it resists saltwater corrosion and pitting, retains strength and finish in harsh weather, and extends product life — making it the best choice for professional or long-term marine installations.
Unlike common 304 stainless, 316 stainless steel adds molybdenum for superior resistance to saltwater corrosion and pitting. Its strength and polished finish ensure lasting performance and shine in the harshest environments.
Choosing an 8′ VHF antenna provides key advantages, particularly for offshore and long-range communication.
Benefits of an 8' VHF Antenna Over a 4' Antenna:
- Higher 6dB Gain for Greater Range
- Superior Offshore Performance
- Improved Signal Focus
- Enhanced Reception in Weak Signal Zones
- Flexible Mounting on Larger Vessels
For longer communication range and optimal offshore performance, the 8′ antenna is the better choice. For compact, inshore setups, the 4′ antenna is ideal.
An antenna with a connector at the base is ideal when you need:
- Custom cable lengths for precise installs.
- Easy cable replacement without removing the antenna.
- Support for premium low-loss coax (LMR-400, RG-8X).
- Tight-space or retrofit installations.
Use a base connector when you need flexibility, easier maintenance, and minimal signal loss — ideal for larger boats and professional setups.
Using one well-designed antenna for AIS and VHF offers the following benefits:
- Isolates signals internally, reducing crosstalk.
- Saves space and eliminates extra mounts.
- Simplifies installation and reduces failure points.
- Cleaner look with fewer antennas.
- Reliable wideband performance tuned for both AIS and VHF bands.
Proper orientation is critical for performance and safety.
Here’s why:
- Reduced Signal Range and Coverage – Angling alters the radiation pattern, creating dead zones.
- Increased VSWR and Signal Loss – Can cause signal reflection, power loss, or even radio damage.
- Compromised Safety in Emergencies – Reduces communication reliability in distress situations.
- Designed for Vertical Orientation – All Digital Antennas are tuned and tested vertically.
Best Practice:
Always raise your VHF antenna to a vertical position before transmitting or receiving. Use a ratchet mount only to lower it when docked, trailering, or passing under low bridges.
Angling the antenna reduces range and weakens signal strength. Keep it upright for maximum safety and performance.
| Antenna Type | Correct Reading |
|---|---|
| 8′ VHF antennas | Shorted |
| 4′ VHF antennas | Open |
| 16′ VHF antennas | Shorted |
| 4′ and 8’ AIS antennas | Open |
| 4’ VHF/AIS antennas | Open |
| Multi-band 992 and 758 | Shorted |
| WiFi omni antennas | Open |
| Cellular omni antennas | Open |
VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) measures how efficiently your antenna sends power from the radio.
- Perfect VSWR: 1.0:1 (no reflection)
- Acceptable: 2.0:1 or lower
Why it matters:
- Stronger signal performance
- Protects your radio from power reflection
- Better reception and range
- Confirms proper installation
- Digital Antenna products are tuned to <1.5:1 for premium performance.
To maximize speed, coverage, and reliability anywhere you need a strong, stable connection.
Top Benefits:
- High-performance connectivity with high-gain for better signal range and strength.
- Precision-tuned for LTE and 5G modem bands.
- Built tough for indoor or outdoor installs.
N-Type Connectors = Maximum Reliability
Rugged and secure for strong signal integrity and stable mounting.
All-in-One Installation Kits Available
Custom low-loss coax cable kits with pre-attached connectors.
Performance That Matters
When your business or data network can’t afford downtime, trust Digital Antenna’s commercial antennas engineered for mission-critical communication.