GMRS Antennas and Understanding dB

Midland Radio has launched its line of GMRS antennas, Ride the Range.

Understanding GMRS antennas and dB (decibel) can be tricky so Midland Radio is breaking it down to help you find the right antenna.

WHAT IS DB?

dB is the difference between two antenna signal levels. dB describes the impact of system devices on signal strength.

Per the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), it is an important measurement because system gains and losses are calculated by adding and subtracting whole numbers. Each time you double (or halve) the power level, you add (or subtract) 3dB to the power level. This correlates with a 50% gain or reduction.

For example, a 10 dB gain/loss corresponds to a ten-fold increase/decrease in signal level. A 20 dB gain/loss corresponds to a hundred-fold increase/decrease in signal level.

UNDERSTANDING DB (DECIBEL) COVERAGE

While you might think the GMRS antenna with highest dB will automatically go farther than an antenna with a lower dB, that isn't necessarily true.

A lower dB casts a taller signal, making communication clearer when encountering heavily obstructed areas such as cities, dense forests, and mountains. For Midland's GMRS antennas, this would include decibels between 2.1-3 db.

Medium dB helps strengthen communication in areas with some obstructions like hills and scattered trees. Midland recommends its antennas with a dB between 3-6.

Higher dB casts a longer signal, better fit for areas with minimal obstructions like wide open plains or highways. The recommendation is that for these environments, you shop Midland's antennas 6.6-7.5 dB.

WHAT DOES dB MEAN FOR A GMRS ANTENNA?

When choosing a GMRS antenna, dB (decibel) gain helps determine how the radio signal is directed. The important thing to remember is simple: a higher dB antenna isn't always the better antenna.

The best choice depends on where you plan to communicate.

Lower-gain antennas (around 2.1-3 dB) spread the signal in a broader pattern, making them a strong choice for areas with more changes in elevation or obstacles, such as wooded trails and mountainous terrain.

Mid-gain antennas (around 3-6 dB) offer a balance of coverage and distance, making them a versatile option for mixed terrain with rolling hills, scattered trees, and more open stretches.

Higher-gain antennas (around 6-7.5 dB) concentrate the signal more toward the horizon. They're best suited for flatter, more open environments where there are fewer obstacles between radios, like highways, open plains, farms, and desert terrain.

Think about where you drive most often, rather than simply choosing the antenna with the highest dB rating.

GMRS antenna dB breakdown for conditions

ANTENNA TIPS AND TRICKS

To maximize range, mount your antenna as high as possible. Antenna placement can have a major impact on performance.
Give the antenna space. Keep it away from light bars, roof racks, GPS antennas, and other equipment that could interfere with the signal.
Match the antenna to the mount. Taller fiberglass antennas need a secure mounting location, while bullbar antennas are designed for heavier-duty mounting applications.
Consider clearance. If you regularly travel through wooded trails, parking garages, or other areas with overhead obstacles, antenna height should factor into your decision.
Route the cable carefully. Keep coax away from power, ignition, intercom, and other electrical cables when possible to reduce potential interference.

THE RIDE THE RANGE LINE OF GMRS ANTENNAS

Midland's line of four GMRS antennas and two bundles were created to take range to new levels while on the trails.

The new GMRS antennas will extend the range of your radio by up to four times. It's key you read on to learn how choosing the right antenna will help you achieve this impressive range extension.

The new GMRS antennas are compatible with GMRS mobile radios- meaning they'll take your Midland MicroMobiles to the next level. Shop Midland MicroMobiles to bring together your communications setup.

Midland's new line of GMRS antennas offers multiple dB (decibel) levels that'll help adventurers level up communication in their specific environment.

When shopping Midland's new line of antenna, get free shipping on all MXAT GMRS antennas.

ABOUT THE NEW GMRS ANTENNAS

MXAT01VP FIBERGLASS ANTENNA (THE GRAND VISTA™)

This antenna will more than quadruple your signal output.

50 inches in height, the MXAT01VP or "The Grand Vista," packs a punch with a gain of 7.5dB.

Midland's new MXAT01VP Fiberglass Antenna also features an NMO adapter for a 1/2 inch hole mount and 19.5 foot COAX cable.

The 1/2 inch hole is commonly used to mount CB antennas, making it easy to switch antennas depending on the type of radio you're planning to use.

MXAT03 BULLBAR ANTENNA (THE CANYON EDGE™)

This 3 db antenna will double your signal output, increasing radio range and clarity.

The MXAT03, also known as, "The Canyon Edge," is 28 inches tall and comes with a 19.5 foot COAX cable.

The bullbar antenna requires a 1/2 inch hole for mounting and is waterproof.

MXAT04VP HEAVY-DUTY BULLBAR ANTENNA WITH SPRING BASE (THE HIGHLAND™ TALL)

The MXAT04VP is the "The Highland Tall," coming in at 47.5 inches in overall height with a 6.6dB gain.

Because of this antenna's height and heavy-duty design, it's fit to take on the toughest of environments. This antenna is also water resistant so it's fit for the outdoors.

The MXAT04 requires a 1/2 inch hole for mounting.

In the box you'll find the antenna and the heavy-duty spring base with a 19.5 foot long COAX cable.

This antenna is also sold by itself as the MXAT04 without the spring base and COAX cable.

MXAT05VP 3dB HEAVY-DUTY BULLBAR ANTENNA WITH SPRING BASE (THE HIGHLAND™)

The MXAT05VP, otherwise known as "The Highland," is a 3dB gain antenna. That means it will double radio output, bringing improved range and clarity to two-way radio communication.

This bullbar antenna is 28.5-inch (over two feet) tall so it won't be an issue with obstructions on the trail.

Like other "Ride the Range" antennas, the MXAT05 requires a 1/2 inch hole to mount.

The bundle includes the antenna and spring base with a 19.5 foot COAX cable.

This antenna is also sold by itself as the MXAT05 without the spring base and COAX cable.