QHA-1314 L-Band Quadrifilar Helix Antenna (1300-1405 MHz)
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QHA-1314

GPS L3 Band Quadrifilar Helix Circular Omni Antenna

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QHA-1314GPS L3 Band Quadrifilar Helix Circular Omni Antenna1300-1400MHz2dBiDownload DatasheetDownload ManualPost Enquiry

The QHA-1314 design strategy emphasizes its specialized performance in the 1.3–1.4 GHz (L-Band) range, targeting military data links, amateur radio satellite (AMSAT) communications, and tactical L-band jamming. By highlighting its Circular Polarization (CP) and high-power 500W capacity, we position it as a critical asset for maintaining signal integrity with moving UAVs and satellite telemetry systems.

Logistics: Compact Agility for Rapid Tactical Deployment

The QHA-1314 is engineered for maximum mobility and logistical efficiency. With an overall length of just 230 mm, its compact footprint allows for easy handling and cost-effective shipping, ensuring rapid delivery to mission-critical sites. Arriving factory-calibrated with zero field tuning required, it features a standard NATO 4-hole mounting interface, making it a "plug-and-play" solution for integration onto armored vehicles, tactical ground stations, and high-performance communication masts.

Durability: Radome-Enclosed All-Weather Resilience

Built to survive the most punishing environmental conditions, the QHA-1314 is encased in a high-impact, UV-resistant ABS radome. The internal copper alloy radiating elements are twisted into a precision helix and enclosed to ensure structural integrity against high-vibration loads common in vehicular and UAV applications. The cylindrical profile is specifically optimized for low wind loading (up to 200 Km/Hr) and the prevention of ice accumulation. With all mounting hardware crafted from marine-grade stainless steel, the antenna is fully protected against salt spray and oxidation in coastal zones.

Efficiency: 500W High-Power Circular Polarization

The QHA-1314 provides a definitive edge in signal reliability through its Circularly Polarized (RHCP or LHCP) radiation pattern. By utilizing a unique quadrifilar helix geometry, it achieves a massive 120-degree vertical beamwidth. This ensures a constant signal lock from the horizon to the zenith, making it exceptionally efficient for Ground-to-Air communication and jamming. Utilizing a specialized "Teflon Dielectric Transmission Line" technique, the antenna safely manages 500 Watts of RF power, maintaining a smooth VSWR (< 1.5:1) across the entire 1300–1405 MHz band.

Technical Features

  • Precision L-Band Coverage: Continuous high-efficiency performance across the 1300–1405 MHz range.
  • Extreme Power Handling: Rated for 500 Watts of RF power, ideal for high-intensity jamming and tactical data transmission.
  • Circular Polarization Advantage: Available in RHCP or LHCP to eliminate signal fading and reject multipath interference.
  • Massive Elevation Beamwidth: 120-degree vertical coverage provides hemispherical "dome" protection from horizon to directly overhead.
  • Teflon Dielectric Technology: Ensures low-loss power transfer and high-heat stability for continuous transmission cycles.
  • Ruggedized ABS Radome: High-strength, RF-transparent housing designed for extreme wind loads and minimal ice formation.
  • NATO Standard Integration: Features a NATO 4-hole flange for rapid installation on military and armored platforms.
  • Marine-Grade Integrity: Constructed with 6063T6 aluminum and stainless steel fasteners for superior corrosion resistance.
  • Weatherproof Termination: Fitted with an N-Female connector protected below the mounting flange for 100% moisture sealing.
  • Maintenance-Free Design: Factory-tuned and fully enclosed elements require no field adjustments or periodic tuning.

UAV Video Link Guide: Optimizing 1.3 GHz Long-Range Downlinks

The 1.3 GHz (1280–1400 MHz) band is a favorite for long-range UAV pilots and tactical units because it offers a superior balance between penetration (ability to fly behind trees or buildings) and antenna size. Using the QHA-1314 at the ground station provides a significant "Link Budget" boost over standard antennas.

1. Penetrating the "Fresnel Zone"

At 1.3 GHz, the signal has a larger "Fresnel Zone" (the elliptical area around the direct line of sight) compared to 2.4 GHz or 5.8 GHz. Objects in this zone can cause signal reflections that interfere with the primary video feed.

  • The QHA Advantage: When a 1.3 GHz signal reflects off a building or the ground, its polarization sense reverses. Because the QHA-1314 is specifically tuned to one sense (RHCP or LHCP), it naturally filters out these "multipath" reflections, resulting in a much cleaner video feed with significantly less "static" or "tearing."

2. Maintaining HD Video During High-G Turns

High-bandwidth digital video links require a very stable signal to maintain their "lock." If the signal drops even momentarily due to the UAV banking, the video will freeze or "pixelate."

  • The QHA Advantage: Standard dipoles or patches lose signal strength as the UAV tilts. The Circular Polarization of the QHA-1314 ensures that whether the drone is level or banking at 45°, the Ground Control Station (GCS) receives 100% of the transmitted energy. This is critical for maintaining high-bitrate video links at the edge of your range.

3. Zenith Protection for "Fly-Over" Missions

Tactical missions often involve the UAV flying directly over the ground station or a relay vehicle. This is where standard vertical antennas fail because they have a "null" (no signal) directly above them.

  • The QHA Advantage: The 120-degree vertical beamwidth of the QHA-1314 is one of the widest in its class. It provides a hemispherical coverage "dome," allowing the operator to maintain a perfect video feed even when the UAV is at a high altitude directly overhead.

4. High-Power "Burn-Through" Capability

In contested environments or areas with high RF noise, you may need to increase your transmission power to maintain a clear link.

  • The High-Power Advantage: Most 1.3 GHz video receivers and antennas are fragile. The QHA-1314 is built with a Teflon Dielectric and is rated for 500 Watts. While your video link won't use that much, this robust construction means the antenna won't saturate or degrade under high-interference conditions, maintaining a clear signal where others fail.

Tactical Integration Checklist

  • Frequency Selection: Ensure your video transmitter is set within the 1300–1405 MHz window for the best VSWR ($<1.5:1$).
  • Polarization Matching: Most long-range 1.3 GHz systems default to RHCP. Verify that the antenna on the UAV matches the sense of your QHA-1314 on the ground.
  • Mounting Height: For vehicular use, utilize the NATO 4-hole flange to mount the antenna as high as possible. This ensures the 120-degree beamwidth isn't "shadowed" by the vehicle's own roof or equipment.

Design Features : QHA-1314 broadband hemi omni-directional LHCP hemi omni quadrifilar helix or RHCP hemi omni quadrifilar helix antenna is rugged all weather model, enclosed in a ABS radome, uses high class copper alloy and does not require any field tuning or adjustments. The compact size of LHCP or RHCP omni-directional quadrifilar helix antenna allows easy handling, shipping and highly suitable for receiving, transmitting, scanning, monitoring, surveillance and jamming applications without having the requirement of multiple antennas. The antenna is also highly suitable for Ground to Air communication/jamming application due to its wide elevation beamwidth with omni-directional properties. Antenna termination fitted just below the NATO mounting flange for complete weather protection. Other type of mounting hardware / configuration can be supplied on request.

Constructions : The QHA-1314 LHCP omni or RHCP quadrifilar helix omni antenna is consisting of two (pair) vertical loop radiating elements at right angles to each other, twisted into a helix turns vertically and enclosed in ABS radome. The special “Teflon Dielectric Transmission Line” technique is used to handle high power handling capacity allowing smooth VSWR and typical 2dBi. gain over the entire 1300-1405 MHz. frequency band. The UV resistant ABS enclosure has excellent transparency for RF signals and enough strength to withstand specified wind loads. The stainless steel mounting hardware is supplied with the antenna. Cylindrical shell/enclosure is used for low wind loading and for minimal effect of ice formation on the antenna operation as well as providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Other mounting configuration can also be supplied on request.

Electrical Specifications:
Frequency Range1300-1400 MHz
Gain2dBi
Bandwidth1.3 - 1.4 GHz
PolarizationCircular - LHCP or RHCP
Input Impedance50 Ohms
Radiation PatternOmni-Directional
Beamwidth -3dB.120 Degrees (Vertical)
VSWR - Equal To or Better Then2:1
RF Power Handling Capacity500 watts
Input TerminationN-Female
Lightning ProtectionDirect Ground


 

Mechanical Specifications:
Antenna MaterialsFiber Glass, Brass, Aluminum
Mounting Hardware -MaterialsMarine Grade Stainless Steel
Wind Rating200 Km/Hr.
Overall Length200 mm
Shipping Length250 mm
Radome MaterialHigh Strength ABS
Radome Outer Diameter110 mm
Radiating Elements - MaterialHigh Quality Brass
Gross Weight1 Kg.


 

Environmental Specifications:
Operating Temperature(-) 40 to +70 Degrees Celsius
Storage Temperature(-) 55 to +85 Degrees Celsius
Humidity0 to 95% RH