5
Setup
Connecting an Antenna
You must install an antenna before you can operate the scanner. You have been provided a
standard telescopic antenna that works well with this scanner, but you may want to
purchases another type to increase the range. To connect the telescopic antenna, simply
connect it to the BNC type ANT. connector on the rear of the scanner. You can purchase a
variety of scanner antennas for both mobile and base station available at a local electronics
store. Choose the one that best meets your needs.
When deciding on a mobile or base station antenna and its location, consider these points.
• The antenna should be as high as possible on a vehicle or a house.
• The antenna and its cable should be as far as possible from sources of electrical noise
(ignition systems, gauges, and so on).
• The antenna should be vertical for the best performance.
Mounting an Antenna
Once you choose an antenna, follow the mounting instructions supplied with the antenna.
Then route the antenna cable to the scanner.
The antenna connector on your scanner makes it easy to use the scanner with a variety of
antennas, such as an external mobile antenna or an outdoor base station antenna.
Always use 50 ohm coaxial cable, such as RG-58 or RG-8, to connect an outdoor antenna.
For lengths over 50 feet, use RG-8 low-loss dielectric coaxial cable. If your antenna’s cable
does not have a BNC connector, you will also need a BNC adaptor (available at a local
electronics store).
Follow the Installation instructions supplied with the antenna, route the antenna cable to the
scanner, then connect it to the ANT. jack.
Warning: Use extreme caution when you install or remove an outdoor antenna. If the
antenna starts to fall, let it go! It could contact overhead power lines. If the
antenna touches a power line, contact with the antenna, mast, cable, or guy
wires can cause electrocution and death. Call the power company to remove
the antenna. DO NOT attempt to do it yourself.
Optional Antenna
If you have chosen an optional mobile antenna, connect the antenna plug into the ANT
connector on the rear of the scanner. (For more information on antenna installation, please
refer to the instruction guide that came with your antenna.)
