Nagoya - NMO-200A / C
Nagoya has recently added the NMO200 series to their
mobile antenna series. The 200A which is designed for
Amateur Radio use (145/440MHz), and the 200C
specifically for Commercial and GMRS (155/460MHz).
Basic Description
Base Connection - NMO
Length - 38.4" Stainless
Gain - 3.0 (VHF) 5.5dB(UHF)
Power Rated - 100W
Electrical Design
It is very important to note that these were
specifically designed as mobile antennas and require the
proper base that provides a ground plane
(counterpoise/CP) for proper operation.
Magnetic Mount -
When used with a magnetic mount base, it should be
located as close to the center of the vehicle roof as
possible. This will provide the necessary CP for the
proper angle of radiation. It cannot be left sitting by
itself on a wooden picnic table or a attached to a small
ammo box.
Ground Plane -
When used as a base station or portable antenna, a
ground plane style base (GPK01) will provide the proper
counterpoise. This also applies to marine operation. It
the body of the craft is wood or fiberglass, this ground
plane mount is preferred.
L-Bracket - Using
an L-Bracket style mount will still provide good
performance, however the bracket must be attached to a
metal base. This could be body of a metal vehicle or a
metal toolbox fixed to the bed of a pickup.
Without the proper base, the SWR will be unpredictable
and performance will be marginal at best.
These antennas are 1/2 wave on VHF and Two 5/8 wave on
UHF.
Mechanical Design
The physical length is 38.4" (98cm)
The NMO base has a spring loaded (plunger) pin allowing it to match with
any standard NMO base.
Also, the antenna can be folded just above the base for areas
with high restrictions such as garages.
Performance
If you are a serious GMRS user, the 200C eliminates the
compromise of using a 'ham' antenna not tuned
specifically for GMRS.
The antenna sweeps below show the difference between the
two models. The 200A is designed for 144-440MHz, while
the 200C is 155-460MHz.
Base Required
The antenna is compatible with a variety of bases for
both mobile and fixed operation. A few are examples and
reviews are shown below.
Amazon links below
Conclusion
I tested mine using the RB-50 magnetic mount and the
performance was excellent. Both antennas are solidly constructed and
I have no doubt the will gives years of excellent
service.
Note: This equipment was received for the purpose of a
fair and unbiased review. All findings are factual based
on the equipment I received. Any issues found have been
reported both here and back to the seller or
manufacturer.
Available from Amazon:
NMO-200A
NMO-200C
