The Aaronia BicoLOG 30100 is a passive biconical measurement antenna covering 30 MHz to 1 GHz, with -39 dBi to 1 dBi gain and an antenna factor of 20 to 41 dB/m. With an SMA (f) connector, a 1/4" tripod socket and a 350 x 160 x 140 mm body, it suits radiated emissions pre-compliance, interference searches and field measurements across 30 MHz to 1 GHz.
Antenna Factor for Field Strength
Aaronia's datasheet gives an antenna factor of 20 to 41 dB/m and gain of -39 dBi to 1 dBi across the range, with 104 calibration points in 5 MHz and 10 MHz steps. Add the antenna factor and cable loss to the analyser reading in dBµV and you have field strength in dBµV/m, the figure an EMC pre-compliance scan is judged against. Gain is low at the bottom of the range, as for any biconical antenna of this size; for weak signals add a preamplifier or choose an active BicoLOG X model.
Compact Size for Handheld and Mobile Use
At 350 x 160 x 140 mm and 350 g, the antenna is small enough to hold by hand on Aaronia's pistol grip, which also makes quick changes of polarisation easy, or to mount on a tripod through the 1/4" socket. Aaronia describes the BicoLOG series for mobile and stationary use.
Connecting to Your Analyser
The SMA (f) connector takes a standard SMA cable; Aaronia recommends its 1 m standard or 5 m and 10 m low-loss SMA cables, and offers an SMA to N adapter for analysers with an N input. Aaronia describes the BicoLOG series as ideal in combination with spectrum analysers. With the passive models, a short low-loss cable matters most at the top of the range, where cable loss is highest.
Specifications
| Frequency range | 30 MHz to 1 GHz |
|---|---|
| Design | Biconical |
| Gain | -39 dBi to 1 dBi |
| Antenna factor | 20 to 41 dB/m |
| Calibration points | 104 (5 MHz and 10 MHz steps) |
| Nominal impedance | 50 Ohm |
| RF connector | SMA (f), or N with adapter |
| Max. transmission power | 5 W AM (100 MHz) |
| Tripod socket | 1/4" |
| Dimensions (L x W x D) | 350 x 160 x 140 mm |
| Weight | 350 g |
| Aaronia part number | 204/002 |
Limitations
- The specified range is 30 MHz to 1 GHz. Above 1 GHz a log-periodic antenna such as a HyperLOG has more gain and directivity than a biconical antenna.
- Passive antenna with low gain at the bottom of its range. For weak signals add a preamplifier or choose the matching BicoLOG X active model.
- A biconical antenna is broad in pattern, so it detects a source well but gives only a rough bearing. Use a HyperLOG log-periodic antenna to locate the source.
- Aaronia lists the scope of delivery as the BicoLOG antenna and typical calibration data. The pistol grip, SMA cables and SMA to N adapter are listed by Aaronia as recommended accessories.
BicoLOG Range Compared
| Model | Range | Type | Gain | Weight | Part number |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BicoLOG 30100 (this page) | 30 MHz to 1 GHz | Passive | -39 dBi to 1 dBi | 350 g | 204/002 |
| BicoLOG 20100 | 20 MHz to 1 GHz | Passive | -45 dBi to 1 dBi | 350 g | 204/003 |
| BicoLOG 20300 | 20 MHz to 3 GHz | Passive | -45 dBi to 1 dBi | 350 g | 204/004 |
| BicoLOG 30100E | 30 MHz to 1 GHz | Passive | -31 dBi to 1 dBi | 1150 g | 204/005 |
| BicoLOG 20100E | 20 MHz to 1 GHz | Passive | -38 dBi to 1 dBi | 1150 g | 204/006 |
| BicoLOG 30100 X | 30 MHz to 1 GHz | Active | 8 dBi to 41 dBi | 500 g | 204/008 |
| BicoLOG 20300 X | 20 MHz to 3 GHz | Active | -5 dBi to 41 dBi | 500 g | 204/010 |
| BicoLOG 30100EX | 30 MHz to 1 GHz | Active | 9 dBi to 41 dBi | 1300 g | 204/011 |
| BicoLOG 20100EX | 20 MHz to 1 GHz | Active | 2 dBi to 41 dBi | 1300 g | 204/012 |
Typical Applications
Radiated emissions pre-compliance scans on products with switching regulators, clocks and cables, in the 30 MHz to 1 GHz band. Finding broadcast, PMR or ISM band interference on site. Field strength checks of VHF and UHF transmitters.
The BicoLOG 30100 suits EMC test engineers and RF engineers who need a biconical antenna for 30 MHz to 1 GHz.
Request a formal quotation for the BicoLOG 30100, or contact us to check it against your spectrum analyser and test setup before you order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which BicoLOG Model Do I Need?
Choose the range first: the 30100 models cover 30 MHz to 1 GHz, the 20100 models 20 MHz to 1 GHz and the 20300 models 20 MHz to 3 GHz. Then choose passive for field strength measurements with the published antenna factor and for transmit use, or X (active) for weak signals. The E versions are larger.
What Is the Difference Between the Passive BicoLOG and the BicoLOG X?
The X models are active, with a built-in preamplifier; Aaronia gives their gain up to 41 dBi. The passive models have gain up to 1 dBi, publish an antenna factor and are rated for 5 W AM transmit at 100 MHz.
What Does the E in the Model Name Mean?
The E versions have a larger body, 540 x 225 x 225 mm instead of 350 x 160 x 140 mm. On the passive models that lowers the antenna factor; they are also heavier.
Can the BicoLOG 30100 Connect to an Analyser With an N Input?
Yes. The antenna has an SMA (f) connector, and Aaronia offers an SMA to N adapter for analysers with an N input.
Is the BicoLOG 30100 Suitable for EMC Pre-Compliance?
Yes, for radiated emissions in its 30 MHz to 1 GHz range. Use the published antenna factor to convert the analyser reading to field strength.
Can I Transmit Through the BicoLOG 30100?
Yes, at low power. Aaronia rates the passive BicoLOG antennas at 5 W AM, stated at 100 MHz. Transmit use is subject to local radio regulations.