rv9aviator

Well Known Member
Can someone explain the difference between a Comant CI-122 antenna and a Comant CI-292 antenna. They are both stainless steel bent whip antenna and look the same in pictures. The CI-292 cost quite a bit more than the CI-122. :confused:
 
CI 292 is an FM antenna for 138-174 MHz, CI 122 is VHF for 118-37 MHz which is the range for our radios
 
Both the CI-122 and the CI-292 cover the same frequency, 118 to 137 MHZ per the spec sheet attached below.

http://www.cobham.com/media/9104/ci 122 data sheet.pdf

http://www.cobham.com/media/9312/ci 292-2 data sheet.pdf

I believe the difference between the two is the CI-292 has a larger diameter element which would be an advantage when mounting on the top of a helicopter. The constant
beat of the rotor blades may cause the thinner CI-122 element to fatigue where the larger diameter would be more resistant to mechanical resonance and flutter. Having the antenna element break loose and contact the rotor would be $$$.

Aircraft antennas have been known to flutter, the effects are are not as dangerous as a control surface flutter but the departing component could strike the aircraft.
Based on a conversation with an engineer that develops military antenna hardware, the top RV speeds are below the 225 - 250 KTS where he has seen this occur.


If you are looking for the best TSO'd VHF Com antenna on the market purchase the D&M (Dorne & Margolin) C63-2
http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/avpages/c63_2.php

The D&M has a tapered element which resist flutter and vibration much better than a straight element, the element is also at DC ground which reduces the effects of "P" static or the annoying buzz when flying through dusty or rainy conditions. The internal impedance matching network provides a low VSWR over the entire com frequency where some of the competitors do not.

Based on testing I have completed with lab grade equipment, If I was required to install a TSO'd antenna on my aircraft, it would be a D&M C63-2.
 
Looks like the CI-292-1 and CI-292-2 are VHF with the CI-292-3 and CI-292-4 being FM. Don Pansier offers a very good post. Thanks.

Regards,
 
Antennas don't know AM from FM from Digital signals.

All they know is frequency and bandwidth.

Everything else is determined by the radio.