Product Overview
Small broadband digital-mode loop with low-noise that receives from 1.8 MHz through 1 GHz and offer tuner-free digital transmit support from 10 MHz through 54 MHz.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| TX/RX | Tuner-free from 10-54 MHz |
| RX Characteristics | Low noise characteristics for digital mode from 1.8 MHz through 1 GHz. |
| Digital input | * 5W minimum required; 25W maximum continuous |
| Shipping weight | 5 lb |
| Shipping size | 36 x 5 x 24 in |
* Including but not limited to the MIL-STD-188 M110a digital communications mode that is rated at 25 watts continuous with bursts of 100 watts digital for up to 1 minute using the MIL-STD Data Modem Terminal (MS-DMT) and Automated Message Terminal (AMT) software applications.
Best For
- Digital/SCADA and broadband receive
- Portable/backpack operation
- Ground-wave and skywave digital communications
- Quantum communications
- Spread-spectrum equipment
What’s Included
- MiniLoop system and included deployment hardware (page states two physical arrangements)
Setup and Operation
Deploy in either of the two supported physical arrangements; the page states deployment option B provides greatest efficiency.
Deployment Specifications
The Mini-Loop is deployable in two ways using the included hardware, where Deployment Option B provides the most efficiency.
Performance and Technical Data
Analysis
The following results were nearly identical, whether taken indoors, outside, or in a backpack.
Analysis from 0-1GHz
Analysis from 0-54MHz
WSPR TX Test baselines at 250 mw
For TX we purposely tested the loop while deployed between two metal buildings & at 250 mw.
NOTE – TX efficiencies increase as power increases, which can lower the usable frequency.
WSPR 30M TX Test
Coverage = 236 km to 1506 km
WSPR 20M TX Test
Coverage = 675 km to 2427 km
WSPR 40M RX Test
For all RX tests we purposely tested the loop while deployed indoors and between floors of a multi-story building.
Max Range = 1337 km
WSPR 30M RX Test
Max Range = 1797 km
WSPR 20M RX Test
Max Range = 1838 km
Usage Scenarios
Where secrecy is paramount, communication through unseen methods plays a crucial role. Some of the usage scenarios of clandestine antennas include:
- SCADA
- Context: Protecting infrastructure is key to providing continuity, integrity, and availability.
- Scenario:
- Solution:
- Clandestine Deployment: A small out-of-site antenna is significant to hiding communications capabilities are less likely to be thwarted.
- Clandestine Communications in Cyber-Denied Environments:
- Context: In an era where internet-based communications are vulnerable to surveillance and attacks, intelligence operatives seek alternative methods.
- Scenario: Imagine a situation where an operative needs to communicate without exposing themselves to internet-based surveillance.
- Solution:
- Physical Separation: Platforms physically separated from the internet can be used. These platforms are not susceptible to internet-based surveillance or attacks.
- Radio Technology: Combine modern computer-based software with radio technology.
- Importance: Counterintelligence and law enforcement must adapt to these evolving communication methods.
- Countermeasures: Detect radio-based clandestine communications and secure evidence.
- Operational Scenarios where concealment and minimizing visibility are critical:
- Inside a Parked Car:
- Example: Monitoring a nearby building while parked outside.
- Setup: Transmitter, receiver, and antennas positioned out of sight from windows.
- Between Floors in an Office Building:
- Example: Operating from the third floor to the first floor.
- Setup: Transmitter, receiver, and antennas positioned out of sight carried out of site under clothing.
- Out in the Open:
- Example: Providing regional communications support while deployed in the field.
- Setup: Transmitter, receiver, and antennas positioned out of sight inside a backpack.
- Example: Providing regional communications support while deployed in the field.
- Example: Operating from the third floor to the first floor.
- Example: Monitoring a nearby building while parked outside.
Remember, clandestine antennas are designed to operate stealthily and covertly, avoiding detection by adversaries. Their success lies in striking a balance between effective communication and maintaining secrecy with a right sized antenna.
All these solutions are enabled by the Broadband Alpha Mini-Loop.
Support Resources
- User Manuals: Alpha Antenna User Manuals hub.
- Videos: Related videos.
- Guidance / FAQs: Available HERE.
- Customer Reviews: Scroll to bottom of this page.
We Listen
We are dedicated to improving all of our systems. Specifications and descriptions are subject to change without notice.
Broadband tuning across all the digital frequencies necessary for NVIS and Groundwave communcations are delivered in this small loop antenna.