Aaronia BicoLOG 30100EX

The Aaronia BicoLOG 30100EX is an active biconical measurement antenna covering 30 MHz to 1 GHz, with 9 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 540 x 225 x 225 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 30100EX adds a built-in preamplifier, and Aaronia gives its gain as 9 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 194 calibration points in 5 MHz steps.

Larger Elements, Higher Minimum Gain

The E versions use a larger 540 x 225 x 225 mm body. On the BicoLOG 30100EX Aaronia's datasheet gives a minimum gain of 9 dBi, against 8 dBi for the compact 30100 X. The trade-off is weight: 1300 g.

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

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

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 30100EX 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 30100EX, 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.

Answered by John Legg, Director, Debug Store

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.

Answered by John Legg, Director, Debug Store

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.

Answered by John Legg, Director, Debug Store

Can the BicoLOG 30100EX 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.

Answered by John Legg, Director, Debug Store

Is the BicoLOG 30100EX 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.

Answered by John Legg, Director, Debug Store

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.

Answered by John Legg, Director, Debug Store

Last reviewed: 31 October 2026