is a device used capture radio waves from the air. Radio waves carry data, typically an audio signal, and can be transmitted in both analog and digital formats. Radio waves are usually classified by frequency; extremely low frequency is used for communication between submarines while super high frequencies are used by microwave devices. The radio spectrum that antennas can receive range from 3 Hertz to 300+ Gigahertz. Radio waves are constantly travelling through the air around us. When they hit a car antenna, the sine wave passes through it, sending the signal down the antenna and through the antenna wire.
What is a Radio Wave?
Radio waves are an electromagnetic signal that travels through the air containing an audible signal. Radio waves can be produced in many different ways and it is up to the receiver to properly decode the signal.
For example, FM radio waves are modulated by the frequency of the signal, which is inversely related to the signal's wavelength. That is, the higher the frequency, the shorter the wavelength and vice-versa. FM wavelengths produce different sounds and tones by varying the wavelength of the signal; the shorter the wavelength, the higher the pitch of the tone. The longer the wavelength, the lower the tone will be.
This is different from AM radio waves, which modulate their Amplitude rather than their frequency. AM radio waves have a constant wavelength and frequency, only the strength of the wave is altered. The lower the strength of the AM signal, the lower the tone. The higher the strength of the AM signal, the higher the pitch will be.
Since the frequency and wavelength are constantly changing, FM is superior for audio quality, but its range can be limited due to its frequency modulation. On the other hand, AM radio waves are better at long distance travel, but at the expense of audio quality.
How Car Antenna's Work
Older car antennas are screwed into the chassis of the vehicle. They can be either fixed or powered antennas. If you want to lower a fixed antenna, the antenna mast must be manually pushed down into the chassis of the car. Power antennas telescope in and out of the antenna bracket when the radio turns on and off, making them more convenient in daily life. Newer cars have a low profile, power-boosted antenna permanently mounted to the roof of the vehicle or hidden away in the glass of a rear window.
Coming out of the antenna, where ever it may be, is a wire that will carry the signal up to the radio. The antenna wire is heavily shielded to reduce analog interference. This wire runs all the way up to the radio where it plugs in. Although there is a common, industry standard for antenna plugs, they can vary between auto manufacturers, so many times an
antenna adapter is needed to make the factory wiring plug into an aftermarket stereo.
Replacing A Broken Antenna
Before attempting to replace your vehicle’s antenna, be sure to consult your owner’s manual for specifics. Not all car antennas are the same, and some may require a more involved installation process than provided here.
Once you’ve consulted your owner’s manual, the next step is to get the right replacement antenna for your vehicle. You can either stop by your local parts store, or order your replacement antenna and antenna hardware from AutoAnything to save the most money.
When you have your new antenna and have read all instructions on its package, gather all necessary tools. They usually include a crescent wrench, needle-nose pliers, and a screwdriver. Finally, locate the route of your antenna cable and remove any panels to get a clear view of the path. Have everything you need? Good. Now you’re ready to begin.
Step 1: Disconnect your negative battery cable to avoid shock when handling any electrical wires or cables.
Step 2: Loosen and remove the base retaining nut with a wrench or needle-nose pliers.
Step 3: Remove the antenna mast.
Step 4: Pull out the antenna coaxial cable and unplug it from the extension cable or radio.
Step 5: Plug in the new antenna coaxial cable to the radio or extension cable.
Step 6: Thread the new cable through the original route to the hole where your antenna mast fits.
Step 7: Insert the new antenna mast and screw it into the coaxial cable.
Step 8: Replace the retainer nut and tighten.
Step 9: Replace the panel that covered the antenna cable path area.
Step 10: Test your new antenna.
For vehicles with a power antenna, the process is slightly more complicated, as you will need to deal with the antenna motor, antenna switch and antenna relay. Consult with your auto technician or car audio store if you run into problems
Common Car Antenna Components
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