The Aaronia BicoLOG 30100 X is an active biconical measurement antenna covering 30 MHz to 1 GHz, with 8 dBi to 41 dBi gain. It has a built-in preamplifier for weak signals. 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.
Built-In Preamplifier for Low-Level Emissions
Biconical antennas have low gain at the bottom of their range, which is why the passive BicoLOG models show negative gain there. The BicoLOG 30100 X adds a built-in preamplifier, and Aaronia gives its gain as 8 dBi to 41 dBi across the range, so low-level emissions stand clear of the spectrum analyser's noise floor without an external preamplifier. The datasheet lists 104 calibration points in 5 MHz and 10 MHz steps.
Compact Size for Handheld and Mobile Use
At 350 x 160 x 140 mm and 500 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 active models, the preamplifier at the antenna makes the cable loss less critical.
Specifications
| Frequency range | 30 MHz to 1 GHz |
|---|---|
| Design | Active biconical |
| Gain | 8 dBi to 41 dBi |
| Calibration points | 104 (5 MHz and 10 MHz steps) |
| Nominal impedance | 50 Ohm |
| RF connector | SMA (f), or N with adapter |
| Tripod socket | 1/4" |
| Dimensions (L x W x D) | 350 x 160 x 140 mm |
| Weight | 500 g |
| Aaronia part number | 204/008 |
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.
- As with any active antenna, strong nearby transmitters can overload the built-in preamplifier. The datasheet gives no transmit rating for the X models, so for transmit use choose a passive BicoLOG.
- Aaronia's datasheet gives no antenna factor for this model; ask us before relying on it for a calibrated field strength result.
- 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 X antenna with preamplifier, typical calibration data, a transport case and an Aaronia SMA tool.
BicoLOG Range Compared
| Model | Range | Type | Gain | Weight | Part number |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BicoLOG 30100 | 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 (this page) | 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. Detecting low-level VHF and UHF signals with a handheld analyser.
The BicoLOG 30100 X 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 X, 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 X 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 X Suitable for EMC Pre-Compliance?
Yes, for radiated emissions in its 30 MHz to 1 GHz range. Ask us about antenna factor data for calibrated results.
Should I Add an External Preamplifier to a BicoLOG X?
No. The X models already have a built-in preamplifier. An external preamplifier is for the passive BicoLOG models.