RF Antenna CW1623 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CW1623 is a 168MHz whip straight RF antenna manufactured by TE Connectivity Laird with NMO base mount termination, designed for VHF applications in the 162MHz to 174MHz frequency range. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of equivalent substitute parts essential for ongoing system support and component procurement.

The CW1623 delivers 3dB gain with a maximum power rating of 200W and VSWR of 2, suitable for fixed base station and mobile RF applications requiring reliable VHF band coverage. Due to its obsolete status, alternative components with compatible electrical and mechanical specifications are necessary to maintain system functionality and ensure supply chain continuity.

Substiute Parts

CW1623

TE Connectivity LairdIn Stock: 913CW1623 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

EM-MX5162-MP

Nearson Inc.In Stock: 899EM-MX5162-MP Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the CW1623 is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Frequency range: 162MHz ~ 174MHz (VHF band)
• Center frequency: 168MHz
• Antenna type: Whip, straight configuration
• Termination: NMO connector
• Mounting type: Base mount
• Number of bands: Single band

Allowable Variation Parameters:

• Gain specification: The CW1623 specifies 3dB; substitute parts may vary within typical antenna performance tolerances
• Power rating: The CW1623 specifies 200W maximum; substitute parts with equal or greater power handling are acceptable
• VSWR: The CW1623 specifies 2; substitute parts with equal or lower VSWR values are acceptable
• Product status: Active substitute parts are preferred for long-term availability

The EM-MX5162-MP from Nearson Inc. meets all mandatory matching parameters and represents a direct functional equivalent for the obsolete CW1623.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The EM-MX5162-MP is the identified equivalent substitute for the obsolete CW1623 based on matching frequency specifications, antenna configuration, and mechanical interface requirements.

Selection Basis:

The EM-MX5162-MP maintains electrical and mechanical compatibility across all critical parameters: identical 168MHz center frequency, 162MHz to 174MHz operating range, whip straight antenna type, NMO termination, and base mount configuration. Both components are single-band VHF antennas designed for the same frequency allocation and physical mounting interface.

Product Status Advantage:

The EM-MX5162-MP carries active product status from Nearson Inc., ensuring ongoing availability and supply chain support. The CW1623 is classified as obsolete, creating procurement risk for new system builds and field replacements.

Compliance Consideration:

The EM-MX5162-MP is RoHS Compliant, meeting current environmental and regulatory standards for electronic component manufacturing and distribution.

Power Rating Consideration:

The EM-MX5162-MP is rated for 100W maximum power, compared to the CW1623 at 200W. System designers must verify that the 100W power rating is sufficient for the intended application. If the application requires the full 200W capability of the original CW1623, the EM-MX5162-MP may not be suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the EM-MX5162-MP be used as a direct replacement for the CW1623 in all applications?

A: The EM-MX5162-MP is mechanically and electrically compatible with the CW1623 for frequency, termination, and mounting requirements. However, the power rating difference (100W vs. 200W) must be evaluated against specific application requirements. If the system operates at power levels exceeding 100W, alternative components should be considered.

Q: What is the significance of the gain difference between 3dB and 2dBi?

A: Both specifications describe antenna gain in the VHF band. The 1dB difference represents a minor variation in radiation efficiency and directional characteristics. This variation is within typical antenna performance tolerances and does not prevent functional substitution for standard VHF communication applications.

Q: Why is the CW1623 listed as obsolete?

A: Obsolete status indicates that TE Connectivity Laird has discontinued manufacturing and support for this component. The EM-MX5162-MP provides an active alternative from Nearson Inc. with equivalent specifications.

Q: Are there any packaging differences between the CW1623 and EM-MX5162-MP?

A: The CW1623 packaging information is not specified in the available data. The EM-MX5162-MP is supplied in bulk packaging. Both components share identical NMO base mount mechanical interfaces, ensuring physical compatibility in system installations.

Q: What does RoHS Compliant mean for the EM-MX5162-MP?

A: RoHS Compliance indicates that the EM-MX5162-MP meets Restriction of Hazardous Substances regulations, restricting the use of specific hazardous materials in electrical and electronic equipment. This ensures compliance with current environmental standards and regulatory requirements in most markets.

Q: Can I use the EM-MX5162-MP in applications requiring the full 200W power rating of the CW1623?

A: No. The EM-MX5162-MP is rated for 100W maximum power. Applications requiring 200W operation must use components with equivalent or higher power ratings. Exceeding the 100W specification may result in component damage or performance degradation.