Amapola is decked out with a Shark Fin antenna. I have no substantive complaints -- for the most part I drive in/around Ballamer and get an acceptable FM signal, and on trips I do books-on-disc via iPod. But the Shark Fin is anything but svelt. I understand that its volume is dictated by the need to cover the OEM conical antenna base. I have been unsuccessful in finding technical specifications on the many sleek, slim , and smaller fin-like antennas that I see on more and more new cars; Lexus, Chrysler, Volvo, Pontiac, BMW, etc. (Many match the car body color so they must be paintable.) I know that a different antenna needs to have a built in amplifier, but what degree of amplification does the Prius' OEM base provide? Although I'm nearly clueless about things electrical/eletronic, I suspect that there are other values that would need to be either matched or closely approached. Does anyone know of an internet site that lists the technical specs of OEM car antennas?
Here is a site that will give you a calculator to find the size/length of an antenna that would be needed, even on the roof of the Prius. (Usually in the range of 28.5" [1/4 wavelength]) A little long for on the roof of the car, unless very removable. On long trips it wouldn't be a bad idea, but definitely not a good idea to take to the car wash. Otherwise, I think that a lot of modifications would be needed just to relocate it. Whip Antenna Length And Frequency Calculator
rayxoxo, thanks for your post, but that takes me in the opposite direction I'm trying to go. I'm interested in identifying the smallest fin-type AM-FM antenna that will interface with minimum issues. In this pursuit the fundamental assumption is that the smaller antennae on BMWs, Pontiac G6s, etc, provide an adequate signal so as not generate massive purchaser complaints, and so might also work on a Prius. I'm been doing some basic visual research in parking lots. Sometimes a small fin-type antenna is coupled with an antenna imbedded in the rear window, so you have to look closely. But folks don't like you looking too closely at their cars. And I been questioned by more than one security guard. So, I'm trying to find a way to get OEM antenna technical specs from one or just a few internet sites.
With antennas there is only one simple rule: Longer they are, better they are. Shark fin antennas are usually a big compromise with built in preamplifier with a bit more dB of pre amplification. In areas where radio signals are very strong there is no problem and this compromise of design versus radio signal performance works well.
Ogo, I accept that there may be some loss of range/weak signals. I'm trying to find numbers for the relevant values so I can compare different shark fins. Here's some data on Sigma Automotive's MB1 amplified Am/FM antenna: http://priuschat.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=11620&stc=1&d=1222646061 So, it's got some numbers. I don't know if they are particularly good or bad. Now, if I could find similar specs for OEM Toyota, Lexus, BMW, Chrysler, Volvo, etc, I could compare them. I can't get a handle on the sites to get the OEM figures. Any ideas anyone? FWIW, here's the full Sigma shark fin antenna page address: Car Antennas :: Sigma Automotive
