Description
OPEK CX301U - 3-Way Coaxial Antenna Switch for VHF/UHF Radio Systems
Product Overview
The OPEK CX301U is a professional-grade 3-way coaxial antenna switch enabling one radio to connect to three separate antennas or three radios to share one antenna. This versatile switching device features extended frequency range coverage up to 800MHz accommodating VHF and UHF communication systems including CB radios, marine VHF, amateur radio, commercial two-way systems, and cellular frequencies. The CX301U utilizes SO239 coaxial connectors with 1 input and 3 output configuration, providing manual switching between antenna paths without requiring disconnection and reconnection of coaxial cables. Constructed for reliable signal switching with minimal insertion loss, this antenna switch enables operators to select between different antenna types, locations, or heights based on communication requirements. Ideal for complex mobile installations requiring multiple antenna options, base stations with primary and backup antennas, marine vessels with bow, stern, and masthead antennas, and radio enthusiasts operating multiple frequency bands requiring antenna optimization for specific applications.
Key Features
3-Way Antenna Switching - Manual switch enables selection between three antenna outputs from single radio input or selection between three radio inputs to single antenna output, providing expanded configuration flexibility for sophisticated communication systems.
Extended Frequency Coverage - Supports frequencies up to 800MHz accommodating VHF marine (156-162MHz), UHF CB (477MHz), amateur radio bands (144MHz, 430MHz), commercial two-way systems, and cellular frequencies without requiring separate switching devices.
SO239 Coaxial Connectors - Standard SO239 female connectors (1 input, 3 outputs) provide universal compatibility with PL259 male coaxial cable connectors used throughout amateur radio, CB, and commercial communication systems.
Minimal Signal Loss - Professional-grade construction maintains signal integrity during switching with low insertion loss, ensuring maximum power transfer to selected antenna without significant performance degradation.
Manual Mechanical Switching - Reliable mechanical switch mechanism provides positive tactile feedback and maintains selected position without requiring electrical power, eliminating failure points associated with electronic switching systems.
Versatile Installation Options - Compact housing enables installation in mobile vehicles, base station equipment racks, marine vessels, or portable field operations, providing three-position antenna selection capability wherever communication systems operate.
Technical Specifications
Electrical Specifications:
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Frequency Range: Up to 800MHz
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Connector Type: SO239 Female
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Configuration: 1 Input / 3 Outputs
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Switch Type: Manual Mechanical
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Impedance: 50 Ohm
Physical Specifications:
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Connector Positions: 4 Total (1 In, 3 Out)
Application:
- Mobile Vehicle Multi-Antenna Systems
- Base Station Primary/Backup Antennas
- Marine Bow/Stern/Masthead Switching
- Amateur Radio Multi-Band Operations
- Complex Communication Systems
- Commercial Two-Way Radio Applications
Installation Notes
The OPEK CX301U antenna switch mounts in a convenient location accessible to the radio operator for manual switching. For mobile installations, mount the switch within reach of the driver or front passenger area. Connect the radio's coaxial cable to the single input SO239 connector using a PL259 male connector. Connect the three antenna coaxial cables to the three output SO239 connectors. Ensure all PL259 connectors are tightened hand-tight to maintain proper electrical contact. Label each output position to identify which antenna connects to each switch position (for example: Position 1 - High-Gain Highway, Position 2 - Compact Urban, Position 3 - Backup). Test all three antenna positions after installation to verify proper operation and signal quality on each antenna. For permanent installations, secure the switch housing to prevent movement during vehicle operation. The mechanical switch requires no electrical power connection. When switching between antennas, briefly key-up the radio on low power to verify the newly selected antenna is functioning before transmitting at full power.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of 3-way switching over 2-way?
The 3-way switch provides additional antenna selection options for complex communication systems. Applications include: high-gain antenna for highways, mid-gain for regional areas, compact antenna for urban parking; or primary antenna, backup antenna, and emergency spare; or separate antennas optimized for different frequency bands or terrain conditions.
Can I use this to switch between three radios sharing one antenna?
Yes, the CX301U operates bi-directionally. You can connect three radios to the three SO239 connectors and one antenna to the remaining connector, switching between radios. However, NEVER transmit on multiple radios simultaneously as this could damage radio equipment. Only one radio should be powered on or transmitting at any time.
Does the 800MHz frequency range cover all CB and marine frequencies?
Yes, the 800MHz upper limit fully covers Australian UHF CB frequencies (476.425-477.4125MHz), marine VHF (156-162MHz), amateur radio bands (144MHz, 430MHz), and commercial two-way radio systems. The extended range also accommodates cellular and other higher-frequency applications beyond typical communication radio requirements.
How does 3-way switching affect signal loss compared to 2-way?
Professional-grade antenna switches like the CX301U maintain minimal insertion loss (typically less than 0.3dB) regardless of the number of output positions. The additional switching position does not significantly increase signal loss. Ensure all connectors remain tight and clean to minimize any losses from poor connections.
What are typical 3-antenna system applications?
Common configurations include: mobile installations with highway high-gain, regional mid-gain, and urban compact antennas; base stations with primary directional, secondary omnidirectional, and emergency backup antennas; marine vessels with bow, stern, and masthead antennas for different operational scenarios; or multi-band amateur radio stations with frequency-optimized antennas for different bands.
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