A multi-range antenna, often referred to as a multiband antenna, has become an integral part of modern communication equipment for organizations such as the German Armed Forces and fire departments. These antennas allow several frequency bands to be used with just a single radio antenna, which is particularly important in emergency vehicles.
Multi-range antennas for the Bundeswehr
Multi-range antennas are used as radio antennas by the German Armed Forces to ensure smooth communication in the field and during operations. The 4-meter band, which covers frequencies in the 74 to 87 MHz range, is mainly used for this purpose. These frequencies are particularly suitable for communication with Bundeswehr radio antennas over medium distances, for example between command vehicles and units in the field.
Thanks to the multi-range radio antennas, the Bundeswehr can operate various radio devices that operate on different frequencies via a single radio antenna. This reduces the technical effort and the need for multiple antennas on vehicles or mobile operations centers. The ability to access multiple frequency bands via a single antenna significantly increases the mobility and flexibility of the troops.
Radio antennas for the fire department
Fire department radio antennas also play a central role in such operations. Especially in emergency situations, reliable radio communication is crucial to ensure fast and coordinated assistance. The fire department primarily uses multi-range antennas in the 2-meter and 4-meter bands, with the 2-meter band (165 to 174 MHz) often being used for direct communication between the emergency services on site. The 4-meter band is used, among other things, for the connection to the control centers.
By using multi-range radio antennas, the fire department can use a single radio antenna for both the incident site radio and the control center radio. This flexibility saves space and weight in the vehicles and enables seamless communication between different teams and the operations control center. In critical moments, when every second counts, the fire department's radio antenna ensures a fast connection and prevents time-consuming frequency changes.
Technical advantages and challenges
Multi-range antennas offer considerable advantages for the German Armed Forces, the fire department, the police and BOS vehicles. The ability to use different radio channels simultaneously contributes to the efficiency and safety of communication. However, technical challenges must also be overcome here: In particular, the avoidance of interference and the precise separation of the frequency bands require careful coordination of the antenna systems. Duplex crossovers help to enable the simultaneous use of two frequencies, which allows the use of just one radio antenna for several purposes.
Multi-range antennas are an indispensable tool for the German Armed Forces and the fire department, for example. Thanks to their ability to operate several frequency bands simultaneously, they offer a high degree of flexibility and efficiency in communication, which is particularly essential in critical operations. With a radio antenna, both military units and firefighting teams can communicate safely and reliably, giving their operations an important technical foundation.
For further information on the installation and optimization of radio antennas for the German Armed Forces, fire department and police, in emergency vehicles or for mobile operations centers, please contact the Norrenbrock Technik team, which also installs multi-range antennas as part of special vehicle construction.
