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Super-Elastic Signal Stalk™ (Half-Wave) with NMO Connector
Order today, ships in 1-2 weeks.
Most orders are shipped on the next business day.
Description
The 1/4 wave Signal Stalk™ and has been very popular — so now we bring you the Super-Elastic Signal Stalk™ ½ wave! Still dual band, but now with 3dBd gain on 2m and 5.5dBd on 70cm!
While we are best known for the Super-Elastic Signal Stick™ there are still times when you need something heavier duty for vehicle use! These are a pretty standard gain antenna, but far more durable than your typical NMO antenna; perfect for off-roading and for anyone who just wants a simple, durable antenna. The antenna will ship with a vinyl end cap on the wire.
- Connector: NMO
- To use this antenna you need an NMO mount
- Many people like to get an NMO mount with a BNC connector on it and then use one of our high quality adapters on the radio.
- Length: ~40 inches
- Max power: 50 watts
- Gain: 144-148Mhz 3 dBd, 430-450Mhz 5.5dBd
- 1/4 wave on 2m, 3/4 wave on 70cm
These are super-elastic and should withstand punishment that would destroy any other antenna =] These come with a limited one year warranty; as tough as they are, they can still break if bent far enough or if they take enough abuse.
Some customers have had issues with getting good SWR readings on their mount; if the SWR is below 3:1 it’s probably something with your mount, if it’s 5:1 or worse then it is likely an issue with the antenna.
In order to fit in our envelopes this antenna has to be shipped disassembled; we will try to include the parts needed to assemble it but we’re still working through details! We discontinued selling this for awhile in 2023 but have reintroduced it as of Mar 2024!
Assembly instructions:
The antenna will arrive in several pieces:
- NMO base with logo
- Middle matching section with a 3mm hole on the bottom, 2.5mm hole on the top
- 3.0mm diameter short wire with silver on top and bottom
- 2.5mm diameter longer wire with silver on bottom and rubber cap on top
- Large and small size hex wrenches
It should not be possible to assemble incorrectly and have all the parts, but here are the basics:
- Using the larger hex wrench, loosen the hex grub screws (set screws) in the base; there are two at 90 degrees from each other. Careful not to remove them entirely
- Insert the shorter wire into the base, there should be no silver showing when it is fully inserted. If it doesn’t go all the way make sure you loosened the set screws sufficiently.
- Tighten both set screws on the base. They should be pretty tight, but careful not to strip the hex heads on the screws.
- Using the same hex wrench, loosen the larger set screw on the middle matching piece — this will be the side with the larger hole.
- Insert the other end of the short wire into the middle piece, making sure the set screw isn’t preventing it from going in all the way.
- Tighten the set screw on the bottom piece
- Using the small hex wrench, loosen the top side of the middle piece.
- Insert the silver side of the longer wire into the top side of the middle piece, making sure the set screw allows it in.
- Tighten the set screw.
- Double check that all set screws are tightened fully, but do not crank it too hard! — you don’t want it to come out, but it’s also possible to strip / round the screws or the tools! Some may want to use loctite or similar to ensure everything remains tight.
Enjoy!
Common Questions
You can find NMO mounts from many ham radio supply stores, as well as on Amazon or eBay. Here are the three most common types to consider:
Types of NMO Mounts
Hole-Mount:
Installed by drilling a hole in your vehicle or attaching a bracket with a pre-drilled hole. This is the most secure and permanent option.Lip-Mount:
This type slides onto the edge of a hood, trunk, or other flat surface. The mount is secured by tightening screws, making it a great option if you don’t want to drill holes.Magnetic Mount:
Ideal for temporary installations. However, dirt or dust can get trapped underneath, leading to micro-scratches over time from vibrations. Be mindful of this if you’re concerned about preserving your vehicle’s paint.
Other Options
There are some less common variations of NMO mounts, but the ones listed above are the most widely used and should cover most installation needs.
If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us at orders@signalstuff.com, and we’ll be happy to help!
The choice between a mag mount and an NMO stalk depends on how you plan to use your antenna. Both options have their pros and cons, so here’s what to consider:
Mag Mount (BNC)
The mag mount is ideal for short-term, “grab-and-go” use. It allows you to reuse your existing Signal Stick™ by quickly popping it off your radio, attaching it to the mount, and connecting the mag mount’s coax cable to your radio.
Advantages:
- Fast and easy to set up.
- Great for emergencies or temporary use.
- Reuses the same BNC Signal Stick you already own.
- Signal Sticks™ can also handle more power than many NMO antennas, believe it or not – though not as much as the Quarter Wave NMO Signal Stalk™
Disadvantages:
- Not as durable as a dedicated vehicle antenna—Signal Sticks™ aren’t designed to withstand weather long-term.
- Magnetic mounts can damage your vehicle’s paint over time if left in place.
NMO Antennas
NMO antennas such as the (Half-Wave)(/products/nmo-half/) or (Quarter-Wave)(/products/nmo-quarter/) Signal Stalk™ are better suited for permanent installations. They tend to be more durable and weather-resistant, making them a better choice for long-term vehicle use.
Advantages:
- Heavier duty and built to last.
- More installation options with different mounts available.
Disadvantages:
- The NMO antennas we sell don’t come with a mount, so you’ll need to purchase one separately.
- NMO antennas are usually more expensive than a Signal Stick
- Requires more effort to install compared to a mag mount.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you need a simple, affordable, and temporary solution, the BNC mag mount with a Signal Stick is hard to beat. However, if you’re looking for a long-term, weather-resistant setup for your vehicle, an NMO antenna is the better choice.
In the end, the right option depends on whether you need quick convenience or long-term durability.