Description
Unity-Gain UHF Mobile Antenna with Standard Threaded NMO Base
Compact, high-durability vehicular radiating rod engineered for clean low-loss communication across commercial transit grids.
The TE Connectivity QW450 is an authentic original equipment manufacturer quarter-wave omnidirectional mobile whip antenna engineered to optimize signal range across commercial and public utility fleets. Operating within the 450–470 MHz UHF frequency spectrum, this high-performance component provides stable unity gain (0 dB / 2.15 dBi) to sustain clean communication links. The TE Connectivity QW450 450-470 MHz Chrome Quarter-Wave Whip Antenna features an elegant, weather-resistant chrome-plated finish over a premium Type 302 stainless steel radiator body, allowing it to withstand high wind speeds and continuous exposure to extreme elements.
Measuring approximately 6 inches in length, the low-profile architectural design minimizes the structural risk of striking low-clearance obstacles like tree branches, warehouse entry frames, or parking garage ceilings. The structural base is engineered with a standard threaded NMO style mounting interface, complete with gold-plated contact pins and an all-brass connector seat to combat moisture oxidation and ensure efficient power transfer up to a maximum threshold of 200 Watts. This passive radiating accessory requires a dedicated metallic ground plane (such as a vehicle's steel roof or trunk lid surface) to form a proper counterpoise and establish low voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) metrics.
Field installers must note that this standalone antenna rod does not feature an integrated coaxial transmission line or physical mounting bracket. To complete a vehicle installation, this hardware component must be threaded onto a matching external thru-hole, magnetic, or trunk-lid NMO mount assembly. The primary mobile two-way transceiver chassis, dashboard installation brackets, low-loss transmission coaxial cables, and end connectors matching your radio's RF port are sold separately.
Key Features & Benefits
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Low-Profile 6-Inch Whip: Compact mechanical clearance profile reduces the risk of physical impact damage when driving beneath low overhead structures.
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Premium Gold-Plated Contacts: Incorporates high-conductivity gold connection pins inside an all-brass base structure to prevent rust-related signal drops.
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High-Power Capacity Handling: Electrically rated to comfortably handle continuous RF transmission power outputs up to 200 Watts max.
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Standardized NMO Base Mating: Built to thread smoothly onto any standard mobile or magnetic NMO mount infrastructure without custom adapters.
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Type 302 Stainless Steel Strength: Forged with a flexible stainless steel core that bends under physical obstruction impact and springs back instantly without warping.
Specifications
| Attribute |
Details |
| Brand |
TE Connectivity |
| Model/SKU |
QW450 |
| Product Type |
Quarter-Wave Whip Mobile Antenna |
| Frequency Band |
UHF |
| Working Frequency |
450 – 470 MHz |
| Radiation Pattern |
Omnidirectional |
| Impedance |
50 Ohm |
| Gain |
Unity / 0 dB (2.15 dBi) |
| Max Power |
200 Watts |
| VSWR |
< 2.0:1 |
| Height/Length |
6 Inches (152.4 mm) |
| Core Material |
Type 302 Stainless Steel |
| Finish Color |
Chrome Silver |
| Connector Base |
Standard Threaded NMO |
| Ground Plane Required |
Yes (Metallic Counterpoise) |
Compatibility
|
|
|
|
| XPR4350 |
XPR4550 |
XPR5350 |
XPR5550 |
| XPR5350e |
XPR5550e |
CM200D |
CM300D |
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More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an external vehicle mounting kit included with this antenna whip?
No, this item consists exclusively of the standalone 6-inch threaded antenna rod and base ring. A companion magnetic or structural NMO mount assembly must be purchased separately.
Can this UHF antenna operate correctly if mounted to a fiberglass surface?
This quarter-wave configuration requires a metallic ground plane counterpoise to achieve proper tuning. Mounting it to non-conductive fiberglass or plastic surfaces without a metal base layer will elevate VSWR metrics.
Does this specific model require manual field cutting or tuning?
No, the QW450 is factory-cut and pre-tuned explicitly to cover the 450 to 470 MHz UHF frequency sector out of the box, completely bypassing the need for manual trimming.
What type of finish is applied to the main steel radiating rod?
The antenna is manufactured using a flexible, industrial-grade stainless steel core that is treated with a premium chrome silver finish to maintain optimal weather resistance.
What happens if this antenna strikes an overhead garage ceiling?
The flexible Type 302 stainless steel composition allows the thin 6-inch whip rod to deflect completely upon impact and spring back into its upright vertical position without snapping.
Can this antenna handle the high transmission output of a 100-watt mobile deck?
Yes, this heavy-duty mobile antenna component is electrically engineered to handle continuous transmission loads reaching up to a maximum threshold of 200 Watts.
Warranty
2-year manufacturer’s warranty.
