Webb’s ZARA® Range of Mobile Antennas
For PAMR, PMR, and LMR industries:
An Overview

 

Introduction:

 

Mobile antennas are essential components of communication systems that require mobility. Mobile antennas are vital for communications on the move. Webb’s ZARA® range of professional vehicle-mounted, helical, omnidirectional mobile antennas is well suited for those who need reliable mobile antennas for their communication needs.

 

PAMR, PMR, and LMR industries and why they need reliable mobile antennas

Many companies prefer ZARA® mobile antennas for their communication needs. Because these antennas cover a wide range of frequency bands and feature a base-loaded design, these antennas are versatile and durable. Design options include open coil, moulded coil, or flexible spring. Replacement parts availability makes it a preferred choice among our customers. Additionally, the optional magnetic bases offer added flexibility to the customers.

 

Public Access Mobile Radio (PAMR):

Public Access Mobile Radio (PAMR) is a mobile radio communication system that allows public access to radio channels for general use. PAMR is typically used for non-critical communication, such as public events, sports, and recreational activities. PAMR systems use analogue and digital technologies, such as FM, AM, and trunked radio systems, to provide reliable communication across a wide area. PAMR networks are often used by government agencies, public safety organisations, and businesses to improve communication and coordination during emergencies and public events.

 

Private Mobile Radio (PMR):

Private Mobile Radio (PMR) is a mobile radio communication system businesses, organisations, and government agencies use to improve communication and coordination among their personnel. PMR systems are typically designed for private use and can offer higher security and privacy than PAMR systems. PMR systems can use various technologies, such as analogue, digital, and trunked radio systems, to provide reliable communication over a wide area. Public safety agencies, transportation companies and construction companies often use PMR systems.

 

Land Mobile Radio (LMR):

Land Mobile Radio (LMR) is a mobile radio communication system used primarily by public safety agencies and other organisations requiring reliable communication. LMR systems are typically designed for rugged environments and can offer higher reliability and more durability when compared to other mobile radio systems. LMR systems can use various technologies, such as analogue, digital, and trunked radio systems, to provide reliable communication over a wide area. LMR systems are often used by police departments, fire departments, emergency medical services, and other organisations requiring reliable field communication.

 

Section 1: Features and Benefits of Webb’s ZARA® Range of Mobile Antennas

ZARA® Mobile Antennas, manufactured by Webb Industries, are vehicle-mounted helical omnidirectional mobile antennas. These antennas cover a range of HF, VHF and UHF frequency bands. They are base-loaded with a flexible spring, an open coil, or a moulded coil whip.

 

Coverage for a range of HF, VHF and UHF frequency bands

One of the most critical features of Webb’s ZARA® Vehicle-mounted Helical Omni-directional Mobile Antennas is their ability to cover various frequency bands. These antennas can cover HF (High Frequency), VHF (Very High Frequency), and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) bands. The ability to cover a wide range of frequencies makes them versatile and suitable for diverse applications.

 

Base-loaded design

Another key feature of these antennas is their base-loaded design. The base of the antenna contains a flexible spring that acts as a shock absorber for the antenna. This design helps to protect the antenna from damage due to vibration or other impacts that may occur while the vehicle is in motion.

The base-loaded design involves the placement of the coil and other components at the base of the antenna rather than in the middle or the top. Doing this helps to reduce the antenna’s overall height, making it more practical for mobile use. Additionally, the flexible spring included in the base helps to protect the antenna from damage due to vibration or impacts, which can be especially important on rough terrain or in other challenging environments.

 

Flexible spring, open coil or moulded coil options

Customers can choose from three options for the antenna coil: open, moulded, or flexible spring. Each option has advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right one for your needs is essential.

The open coil option is the simplest and most basic, while the moulded coil is more durable and weather-resistant. The flexible spring option is the most versatile, as it can be adjusted to suit different applications and frequencies. Depending on your needs, you may choose a specific type of coil that fits your particular use.

Section 2: Applications of Webb’s ZARA® Mobile Antennas in PAMR, PMR, and LMR Industries

 

 ZARA® antennas meet the requirements of emergency services and public safety, amateur radio and commercial users. The HF band covers frequencies from 3 to 30 MHz, the VHF band covers frequencies from 30 to 300 MHz, and the UHF band covers frequencies from 300 MHz to 3 GHz. This range of frequencies benefits mobile communications, where users must communicate over different frequencies depending on their location and equipment.

In PAMR, PMR and LMR communications, ZARA® antennas are paramount in disaster response, improving productivity, efficiency and safety and overcoming the barriers to seamless communication.

 

View the ZARA® mobile antennas on our website. 

 

Technical aspects of the radiation pattern of a whip antenna 

A whip antenna is a type of antenna that consists of a thin metal rod. The radiation pattern of a whip antenna refers to the directional pattern in which it emits radio waves.

In general, a whip antenna is considered an omnidirectional antenna, meaning it radiates radio waves in all directions in a roughly spherical pattern. However, the radiation pattern of a whip antenna can vary depending on several factors, including the length and diameter of the antenna, the frequency of the signal being transmitted or received, and the presence of nearby objects that may affect the signal.

 

At low frequencies (i.e. long wavelengths), a whip antenna can be quite long, typically around one-quarter to one-half wavelength in size. At higher frequencies (i.e. shorter wavelengths), the whip antenna may be much shorter, typically only a few inches long. The radiation pattern of a whip antenna at low frequencies is generally more directional than at higher frequencies.

 

The radiation pattern of a whip antenna can be affected by nearby objects, such as buildings, trees, or other antennas. In general, the presence of these objects can cause the radiation pattern of the whip antenna to become distorted or disrupted, resulting in reduced signal strength or interference.

 

The ZARA® cutting chart 

It is essential to carefully cut and position the whip when optimising a whip antenna’s radiation pattern. It involves adjusting the whip’s length to match the signal’s frequency and ensuring that the antenna is mounted in a location clear of obstructions and other sources of interference.

 

Webb’s ZARA® installation guide is designed to help you determine the correct cut length that needs to be applied to a whip based on its frequency. This guide also gives you a broad overview of the different types of  ZARA® antennas Webb offers.

Section 3: Available Options and Accessories for Webb’s ZARA® Mobile Antennas

Replacement parts and optional magnetic bases are available.

 

Replacement parts

In addition to the coil options offered, Webb also offers replacement parts for their antennas. One advantage of Webb’s ZARA® antennas is the availability of replacement parts. It means that if an antenna is damaged or worn out, it can be easily repaired without having to purchase a complete replacement antenna. Replacement parts can save users time and money and reduce waste.

 

Optional magnetic bases

Finally, the optional magnetic bases add flexibility for users. For those who need a more flexible mounting option, Webb offers ZARA® compatible magnetic bases that can be attached to the vehicle. Magnetic bases allow antennas to be easily removed and repositioned as needed.

These bases can be attached to a vehicle quickly and easily, and the antenna can be removed and repositioned as needed. Obtaining magnetic bases makes using the antennas on different trucks, buses or other locations possible, depending on the user’s needs.

Conclusion

Webb’s ZARA® Vehicle-mounted Helical Omni-directional Mobile Antennas are excellent choices for anyone in the PAMR, PMR, and LMR industries needing reliable and versatile mobile antennas. With their wide range of frequency coverage, base-loaded design, coil options, replacement parts availability, and optional magnetic bases, ZARA® antennas provide a range of features and benefits that are well-suited to various applications.

 

When you decide on a Webb ZARA® Mobile Antenna, you can rest assured that you will have improved signal strength, better coverage, and compatibility with most mobile communication devices popular in VHF Mid-Band, VHF high band, UHF TETRA, UHF mobile trunking or UHF telemetry applications. The antennas are mounted through ⌀19mm holes. 

Please explore these antennas further and consider their potential applications in your own businesses or organisations. Order either complete antennas or replacement parts only. Visit https://www.webb.co.za/brand/webb/zara/

 

About Webb

Webb Industries design, manufacture and distribute a full range of professional mobile and base station antennas for motor vehicles, trains, towers, buildings, and some OEM applications. 

Contact Us – Webb Industries