The BEAM Iridium Covert Antenna has been specifically designed for the maritime market to help against Pirates boarding a vessel and destroying all communication antenna’s to restrict any crew from communication with the outside world.
The Iridium Covert antenna, is the only antenna designed not to look like an antenna, thus disguising it with the normal non-communication equipment you would expect to see on a vessel. The Covert antenna can be used with any of the BEAM Iridium docking units or fixed maritime terminals.
Key Benefits and Features
• IP66 rated enclosure
• Looks like a normal maritime light
• Polycarbonate housing
• Same antenna elements as the RST702 antenna in a covert housing
• Easy to install
• Same for install as RST702
• Antenna pre fitted inside
• Supports both Satellite / GPS cables
• Custom designed by Beam
Q.Does RF Interference affect the satellite signal?
A.
All wireless devices, including satellite telephones, are susceptible to RF (Radio Frequency) interference from other electronic devices. This problem is especially evident when numerous antennas and broadcasting devices are located within close proximity to each other.
A good example would be onboard a ship. It is important that certain considerations be taken into account for best performance when an Iridium/Inmarsat system is installed.
Causes of RF Interference:
Some subscribers have contacted Iridium regarding the loss of signal quality when they operate their equipment near active Inmarsat terminals. The power with which Inmarsat units transmit can overpower the Iridium unit’s ability to properly maintain a quality connection with the Iridium satellite constellation. Inmarsat terminals are often found in the same locations as Iridium subscribers, such as harbors, airports and especially onboard ships.
The location of the Inmarsat unit’s antenna in relation to the Iridium unit’s antenna plays a significant role in determining the degree of signal degradation that an Iridium subscriber can expect to experience. All Iridium units are susceptible to this interference, regardless of the type of antenna being used.
Generally speaking, an Iridium unit, be it a handset using its internal antenna or a fixed terminal when attached to an externally mounted antenna and located within 15 and 45 meters (50 to 150 feet, respectively) of an operating Inmarsat Standard-C terminal, will likely experience degraded performance.
Other sources of RF interference such as Globalstar units, radar devices and broadcast stations can provide interference for Iridium units, but usually are not encountered as frequently as Inmarsat terminals.
Also refer to “Assuring Quality of Iridium Service” in the Antenna Installation Guide.
Q.What is the proper torque value for the SMA connector?
A.
The proper torque for the sma connector is between 7 to 10 inch pounds of torque. (81 to 110 N-cm, for those who prefer metric measures).
If this value is exceeded, its possible to break the connector. Please note that if found the antenna connector has been damaged due to over tightening, this will void the warranty.
Q.Can I use any kind of cable in combination with my Inmarsat active/passive antenna?
A.
Only cable kits supplied by Beam will operate correctly with the Inmarsat antennas. Each cable kit has been made to meet the specifications of the antenna and Inmarsat network.
The cable kit not only provides Satellite connectivity but also GPS which is required for the Inmarsat service to function correctly.
In the case of active antennas, then dock/terminal provides power to the antenna as well.
For example, use passive cable kits with the ISD700 and active cable kits with the ISD710 / 715 and 720.
Failure to use the correct Beam cables can damage the antenna, stops the service from performing properly and void warranty.
