GME extends antenna range

GME is increasing the flexibility of its already large marine antenna range. In 2009, GME introduced the very popular detachable antenna range with the release of the versatile ABL012 antenna base, a double swivel base with fivemetres of antenna cable attached.

In 2010 there will be an addition to the antenna base range with the introduction of the ABL013 antenna base. The ABL013 will have the same footprint as the ABL012, and is for customers who only require the antenna whip to swivel in a single direction. The ABL013, like its big brother, will also be compatible with all antenna whips in the range, coming with the colour coded tabs so the base can be identified and the removed whip put back on the correct base, and a rubber cap to protect the antenna connections when the whip is removed.

GME has also increased the antenna whip range. Already in the range are 6ft and 8ft, 27MHz, Broadcast and VHF whips that suit the ABL012 and ABL013 bases, the new whips will be a 4ft length, they are compatible for use with AIS, 27MHz, Broadcast and VHF devices. These new whips will be interchangeable with any of the bases, making it simple to put an antenna package together, choose a base and then your whip to suit the device it is being plugged into. At this stage the AIS antenna will only come in a 4ft length, the antenna whip will also come with a quick fit FME to BNC connector. The lead on the ABL range of bases is terminated with a female FME connector making installation easy, as only small holes have to be drilled in bulk heads and decks.

The increase in range to both the detachable whips and antenna bases will give more flexibility to the owners of boats. Boat owners will also be able to carry two lengths of antenna whip and use the shorter 4ft when closer to the shore, and use a longer 6ft or 8ft when they travel further offshore.

The fact that all whips and antenna bases are interchangeable takes the guess work out of which base is compatible with which antenna whip making it easier for both sales staff and the discerning boater. Also replacement of broken or damaged whips is simply a case of unscrewing the old whip and screwing in a new one.

All of the GME marine antenna whips are manufactured in Gladesville, Sydney.

For more information on GME’s marine antenna range or any of other GME products visit www.gme.net.au.