Midland AT15-S - Stubby UHF Antenna

Midland AT15-S - Stubby UHF Antenna

Replacement stubby UHF antenna featuring 90mm compact length, flexible rubber design, SMA connector, 50-ohm impedance, UHF frequency compatibility, and durable construction for Midland G15, G18, and ARCTIC portable handheld radios.

Product Overview

The Midland AT15-S replacement stubby UHF antenna suits the G15 and G18 portable radios providing compact alternative to standard antennas. The 90mm stubby length offers reduced profile improving portability and reducing snagging hazards in work environments, vehicles, or outdoor activities. Flexible rubber design withstands bending and impacts typical in demanding applications preventing antenna breakage common with rigid designs. Standard SMA connector ensures secure attachment to compatible Midland handheld radios maintaining reliable electrical connection. The 50-ohm impedance matches radio transceiver output specifications ensuring optimal power transfer and transmission efficiency. UHF frequency range compatibility enables communication on standard UHF CB channels used throughout Australia for commercial, recreational, and personal communications. Stubby antennas sacrifice some transmission range compared to full-length quarter-wave antennas but provide significant practical advantages including reduced height profile, improved durability, and enhanced portability. The compact design prevents interference with vehicle headliners, doorframes, or equipment when wearing radio on belt or chest harness. Flexible rubber construction absorbs impacts and bending forces protecting both antenna and radio from damage during drops or collisions. This replacement antenna enables users to customize radio setup choosing between compact stubby profile for close-range communications or upgrading to longer antennas for extended range applications.

Features & Benefits

90mm Compact Length Stubby design reduces antenna height improving portability and reducing snagging hazards. Compact profile prevents interference with vehicle interiors, equipment, or clothing when wearing radio making stubby antennas ideal for construction sites, warehouses, or confined spaces.

Flexible Rubber Design Flexible construction withstands bending and impacts preventing antenna breakage. Rubber material absorbs forces from drops, collisions, or compression typical in demanding work environments extending antenna lifespan compared to rigid designs.

SMA Connector Compatibility Standard SMA connector ensures secure attachment to Midland G15, G18, and ARCTIC handheld radios. Threaded connector provides reliable electrical connection and mechanical retention preventing accidental disconnection during radio use.

50-Ohm Impedance Standard 50-ohm impedance matches radio transceiver specifications ensuring optimal power transfer. Correct impedance matching prevents signal reflection, reduces power loss, and protects radio transmitter from damage caused by impedance mismatch.

UHF Frequency Range Designed for UHF frequency operation covering standard Australian UHF CB channels. UHF compatibility enables communication on 476-477MHz band used for commercial, recreational, and personal communications throughout Australia.

Replacement Convenience Direct replacement for damaged or lost original antennas restoring radio functionality. Replacement availability eliminates need for costly radio replacement when antenna damaged extending equipment service life.

Reduced Profile Benefits Shorter antenna prevents catching on doorframes, vehicle headliners, or equipment. Lower profile reduces visibility and obstruction improving user comfort and reducing workplace hazards associated with protruding antennas.

Durable Construction Robust design withstands harsh environments typical in construction, mining, agriculture, and outdoor applications. Durable materials resist UV exposure, temperature extremes, and physical abuse maintaining performance throughout extended service life.

Technical Specifications

Installation & Compatibility

Radio Compatibility The AT15-S stubby antenna is compatible with Midland G15, G18, and ARCTIC portable handheld radios featuring SMA antenna connectors. Verify radio model features SMA connector before purchasing as some radio models use different connector types. This stubby antenna is direct replacement for original antennas supplied with these radio models.

Installation Process Remove existing antenna by unscrewing counterclockwise from radio top. Align AT15-S antenna threads with radio SMA connector and screw clockwise until hand-tight. Avoid overtightening which could damage connector threads. Ensure secure connection preventing intermittent contact or signal loss.

Performance Considerations Stubby antennas provide reduced transmission range compared to full-length quarter-wave antennas due to shorter electrical length. Expect approximately 30-50% reduced range compared to full-length antennas depending on terrain and conditions. Stubby antennas excel in applications prioritizing portability, durability, and reduced profile over maximum range.

Range Expectations Typical stubby antenna range in urban environments: 1-2 kilometers line-of-sight. Rural open areas: 2-4 kilometers depending on terrain and obstacles. Indoor building penetration significantly reduced compared to longer antennas. For maximum range applications, consider full-length quarter-wave antenna upgrades.

Maintenance Inspect antenna periodically for cracks, tears, or damage to flexible rubber material. Clean connector threads removing dirt or corrosion ensuring reliable electrical connection. Replace antenna if rubber cracking, connector damage, or reduced performance observed.

Upgrade Options Users requiring extended range can upgrade to Midland quarter-wave antennas (approximately 150mm length) providing improved transmission and reception range. Compare stubby convenience against range requirements selecting appropriate antenna for specific application needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this antenna work with other brand radios?

The AT15-S features SMA connector compatible with many handheld radios using SMA antenna connections. However, optimal performance achieved with specified Midland G15, G18, and ARCTIC radios. Other brand compatibility depends on connector type and frequency range. Verify connector type matches before purchasing.

How much range will I lose compared to full-length antenna?

Stubby antennas typically provide 30-50% reduced range compared to full-length quarter-wave antennas. In practical terms, full-length antenna achieving 5km range reduces to approximately 2.5-3.5km with stubby antenna. Trade-off between compact convenience and transmission range depends on application requirements.

Can I use this antenna on vehicles?

Yes, stubby antenna works on handheld radios used in vehicles though external vehicle-mounted antennas provide significantly better performance. Vehicle metal structure blocks signals reducing handheld radio range regardless of antenna length. For vehicle installations, consider dedicated vehicle antenna systems.

Is this antenna waterproof?

The flexible rubber construction provides weather resistance protecting against rain and moisture exposure typical in outdoor use. However, antenna is not submersible waterproof. Avoid prolonged water immersion which could damage internal components or connector.

How do I know if my radio uses SMA connector?

SMA connectors feature threaded coupling approximately 7mm diameter at radio top. Midland G15, G18, and ARCTIC radios specified for this antenna use SMA connectors. Check radio documentation or compare existing antenna connector appearance to product images confirming compatibility.