CW1623S RF Antenna 168MHz Whip Straight NMO Base Mount

Part Overview

The CW1623S is a 168MHz whip antenna manufactured by TE Connectivity Laird, designed for VHF applications in the 162MHz to 174MHz frequency band. This component features a straight whip configuration with NMO base mount termination and delivers 3dB gain at 200W maximum power handling. The product is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of active substitute components that maintain electrical and mechanical compatibility for ongoing system support and new installations.

Substiute Parts

CW1623S

TE Connectivity LairdIn Stock: 1251CW1623S Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

EM-MX5162-MP

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

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the CW1623S is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Frequency range coverage: 162MHz – 174MHz
• Center frequency: 168MHz
• Antenna type: Whip, Straight configuration
• Termination standard: NMO connector
• Mounting configuration: Base Mount
• Frequency group classification: VHF

Allowable Parameter Variations:

• Gain specification: The substitute part EM-MX5162-MP provides 2dBi gain compared to the original 3dB specification. Both values fall within acceptable performance ranges for this antenna category and frequency band.
• Power handling: The substitute part is rated for 100W maximum power, which is lower than the original 200W specification. This represents a functional constraint that must be evaluated against system requirements.
• VSWR: The substitute part does not specify VSWR, whereas the original specifies 2. This parameter is not a disqualifying factor for substitution when other electrical characteristics align.

The EM-MX5162-MP from Nearson Inc. meets all mandatory matching criteria and represents an active product with current manufacturing status and RoHS compliance certification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The EM-MX5162-MP qualifies as a direct substitute for the CW1623S based on matching frequency specifications, antenna configuration, and connector termination. The substitute part carries active product status with current manufacturing availability and RoHS compliance certification, providing supply chain continuity for applications requiring 168MHz VHF antenna functionality.

Two operational constraints require evaluation during component selection:

1. Power Handling Capacity: The substitute part is rated for 100W maximum power compared to the original 200W specification. System designs operating at power levels exceeding 100W require confirmation that the substitute part meets thermal and electrical requirements.

2. Gain Specification: The substitute part delivers 2dBi gain versus the original 3dB specification. This 1dB difference in antenna gain may impact system link budget calculations and signal reception characteristics in applications with marginal signal margins.

Both parts maintain identical frequency range coverage, NMO termination, and base mount configuration, ensuring mechanical and electrical interface compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the EM-MX5162-MP directly replace the CW1623S in existing installations?

A: The EM-MX5162-MP provides direct mechanical and electrical interface compatibility through identical NMO termination and base mount configuration. Functional compatibility depends on system power requirements and gain specifications. Applications operating below 100W power levels and tolerating 2dBi gain performance can implement direct substitution without modification.

Q: What is the significance of the 1dB gain difference between the two parts?

A: The CW1623S provides 3dB gain while the EM-MX5162-MP provides 2dBi gain. This 1dB difference affects antenna directivity and reception sensitivity. Systems with adequate signal margin accommodate this variation. Applications with tight link budgets require analysis to confirm acceptable performance at the lower gain specification.

Q: Why is the power handling rating different between the two parts?

A: The CW1623S is rated for 200W maximum power while the EM-MX5162-MP is rated for 100W. This difference reflects design and manufacturing variations between manufacturers. System designs must operate within the 100W limit when using the substitute part to prevent thermal damage and maintain reliability.

Q: Are both parts suitable for the same frequency applications?

A: Both parts cover the identical 162MHz to 174MHz frequency range with 168MHz center frequency. They are interchangeable for VHF applications within this band specification.

Q: What is the packaging difference between these parts?

A: The CW1623S is supplied with standard packaging, while the EM-MX5162-MP is supplied in bulk packaging. This distinction affects procurement quantities and handling procedures but does not impact electrical or mechanical performance.

Q: Does the substitute part meet current compliance standards?

A: The EM-MX5162-MP carries RoHS compliance certification, meeting current environmental and material restriction requirements. The original CW1623S does not specify RoHS status. The substitute part is suitable for applications requiring RoHS-compliant components.