Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Eightwood DAB/DAB+ Car Radio Aerial Antenna. This dedicated DAB aerial is designed to enhance your in-car digital radio experience, delivering clear, CD-quality sound. It features an SMB plug, a magnetic mount for easy installation, and a 4-meter cable for flexible positioning.
Figure 1: Eightwood DAB/DAB+ Car Radio Aerial Antenna
Package Contents
Please check the package for the following item:
- 1 x DAB Car Aerial (Magnetic Mount Antenna with integrated cable and SMB connector)
Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model Name | DB1-1627-S05SP-030-400 |
| Antenna Type | Whip, Straight |
| Antenna Length | Approx. 18cm (7 inches) |
| Mounting Type | Magnetic Base |
| DAB Connector | SMB Male Plug (Female pin) |
| Cable Type | RG174 |
| Cable Length | 4 meters |
| Impedance | 50 Ohm |
| V.S.W.R. | ≤1.5 |
| Gain | 5 dBi |
| Working Frequency | 174MHz ~ 240MHz (Band III), 1452MHz ~ 1492MHz (L-Band) |
| Material | Plastic and Metal |
| Item Weight | 74g |
Setup and Installation
The Eightwood DAB/DAB+ antenna is designed for simple and hassle-free installation without the need for drilling.
- Unpack Components: Carefully remove the antenna from its packaging. Ensure the antenna whip is securely attached to the magnetic base. If the whip is separate (as shown in Figure 2), gently screw it clockwise onto the base until it is firm.
- Choose Mounting Location: For optimal reception, it is highly recommended to install the aerial outside the vehicle. Select a location that is as high up and vertical as possible on a clean, flat steel surface. This placement helps avoid signal blockage from the vehicle's metal panels. The magnetic base will securely attach to any suitable steel surface. For vehicles with glass fiber bodies or boats, an additional steel or magnetic underplate (not supplied) may be required for mounting.
- Route the Cable: Carefully route the 4-meter RG174 cable from the antenna's mounting point to your DAB radio unit. Ensure the cable is not pinched, kinked, or exposed to excessive heat or sharp edges, which could damage it.
- Connect to DAB Radio: Locate the DAB antenna input on your car radio. This is typically an SMB female port. Connect the SMB Male Plug (Female pin) from the Eightwood antenna firmly into the radio's DAB antenna input.
Figure 2: Antenna with detachable whip
Figure 3: Close-up of SMB connector
Operating Instructions
Once the antenna is correctly installed and connected to your DAB radio, operate your radio as follows:
- Turn on your car's ignition and your DAB radio.
- Select the DAB/DAB+ source on your radio.
- Perform a station scan or auto-tune function on your DAB radio to find available digital radio stations.
- Adjust the radio's settings as needed to select your desired station.
The antenna will provide the necessary signal reception for your DAB radio to function.
Maintenance
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your antenna:
- Cleaning: Periodically wipe the antenna and its magnetic base with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Ensure the mounting surface is also clean for a secure magnetic hold.
- Cable Inspection: Regularly check the antenna cable for any signs of wear, cuts, or damage. Damaged cables can lead to poor signal quality.
- Connection Check: Ensure the SMB connector remains firmly attached to your DAB radio.
- Environmental Exposure: While designed for outdoor use, extreme weather conditions (e.g., severe ice buildup) may temporarily affect performance.
Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your DAB radio reception, consider the following:
- Poor or No Reception:
- Antenna Placement: Ensure the antenna is mounted outside the vehicle, as high and vertical as possible, on a metal surface. Obstructions like vehicle body panels or nearby tall structures can block signals.
- Connection: Verify that the SMB connector is securely plugged into your DAB radio.
- Cable Damage: Inspect the entire length of the cable for any visible damage.
- Radio Scan: Perform a new station scan on your DAB radio, as available stations or signal strengths may change.
- Signal Strength: DAB signal strength can vary by location. Try moving the vehicle to a different area to see if reception improves.
- Antenna Not Sticking:
- Ensure the mounting surface is made of steel and is clean and flat.
- For non-steel surfaces, an additional steel plate is required.
User Tips
For the best possible DAB/DAB+ radio reception, always prioritize the antenna's placement. Mounting it outside your vehicle, as high and as vertically as possible, significantly reduces signal interference from your car's metal body and ensures a more stable and clear listening experience.
Compatible DAB Radios
This aerial is suitable for a wide range of modern car DAB radios that utilize an SMB fitting. Below is a list of compatible brands and models:
- Alpine: All in-car DAB except Ezi-DAB
- Beat: ALL in-car DAB except 400 & 485
- Blaupunkt: All in-car DAB
- Caliber: All in-car DAB except PMT-700
- DC-KO: All in-car DAB
- Clarion: All in-car DAB except DAB302E
- Clarity: CCE203-DAB
- Grundig: All in-car DAB
- JVC: All in-car DAB
- Kenwood: All in-car DAB
- Kinetic: All in-Car DAB
- Pioneer: All in-car DAB except GEX-P900DAB
- Philips: CEM.....series
- Pure: Highway H240Di, H260D
- Sonichi: SB50-DAB
- Sony: All in-car DAB
Warranty and Support
For any questions regarding product functionality, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact the seller or retailer from whom you purchased this product. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty purposes.