CWB1320 RF Antenna Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CWB1320 is a 153MHz VHF whip antenna manufactured by TE Connectivity Laird, designed for base mount applications with NMO termination. This antenna operates across the 132MHz to 174MHz frequency band and delivers 3dB gain with a maximum power rating of 200W. The product is currently classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for system maintenance, repair, and component sourcing in legacy installations.

Substiute Parts

CWB1320

TE Connectivity LairdIn Stock: 1080CWB1320 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

EM-MX5152-MP

Nearson Inc.In Stock: 1075EM-MX5152-MP Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the CWB1320 is determined by the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Compatibility Criteria:

• Termination Type: NMO connector (mechanical and electrical interface requirement)
• Antenna Configuration: Whip, straight form factor (physical installation constraint)
• Mounting Type: Base mount (system integration requirement)
• Frequency Group: VHF band operation (f < 300MHz)
• Frequency Overlap: Operating range must encompass or substantially overlap the 153MHz center frequency and 132MHz–174MHz band

Performance Parameters Affecting Substitution:

• Gain: Specified as 3dB for the main part; substitute parts with comparable gain (2dBi to 3dB range) maintain equivalent radiation characteristics
• VSWR: Main part specifies 2; substitutes with unspecified VSWR remain acceptable if frequency range compatibility is confirmed
• Power Rating: Main part rated 200W; substitutes with lower power ratings (100W) are acceptable for applications not requiring full power capacity
• Physical Height: Main part height is 18.750" (476.25mm); height variations are acceptable provided mechanical clearance is available in the installation environment

The EM-MX5152-MP from Nearson Inc. qualifies as a substitute based on matching termination (NMO), antenna type (whip, straight), mounting configuration (base mount), frequency group (VHF), and overlapping frequency coverage (152MHz–162MHz encompasses the 153MHz center frequency).

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CWB1320 (Main Part): The CWB1320 is obsolete and no longer in active production. Existing inventory of 1,060 pieces is available as new original stock. This part remains suitable for direct replacement in legacy systems where the specific electrical and mechanical characteristics are required and component availability is not a constraint.

EM-MX5152-MP (Substitute): The EM-MX5152-MP is an active product from Nearson Inc. with 975 pieces in new original stock. This substitute is RoHS compliant, addressing regulatory requirements that may not be specified for the obsolete CWB1320. The substitute operates at a center frequency of 157MHz within the 152MHz–162MHz band, which overlaps the CWB1320 operating range and encompasses the 153MHz center frequency. The gain differential (2dBi versus 3dB) and power rating reduction (100W versus 200W) must be evaluated against specific application requirements. The active product status ensures continued availability and supply chain reliability.

Selection Basis:

• Both parts share identical termination (NMO), antenna type (whip, straight), mounting configuration (base mount), and frequency group (VHF)
• Frequency range overlap at 153MHz confirms operational compatibility
• RoHS compliance of the substitute addresses modern regulatory standards
• Active product status of the substitute provides supply chain continuity

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the EM-MX5152-MP directly replace the CWB1320 in existing installations?

A: The EM-MX5152-MP is mechanically and electrically compatible with the CWB1320 based on matching NMO termination, whip antenna configuration, and base mount design. Both operate within the VHF frequency band with overlapping coverage at 153MHz. However, the gain specification differs (2dBi versus 3dB) and the maximum power rating is lower (100W versus 200W). Substitution is valid for applications where these performance differences are acceptable.

Q: What is the significance of the frequency range difference between the two parts?

A: The CWB1320 operates across 132MHz–174MHz, while the EM-MX5152-MP covers 152MHz–162MHz. The substitute's range is narrower but fully encompasses the 153MHz center frequency of the main part. For systems operating exclusively at or near 153MHz, this narrower range does not impact functionality. Systems requiring operation across the full 132MHz–174MHz spectrum would require the CWB1320 or an alternative with equivalent broad-band coverage.

Q: How do the gain specifications compare?

A: The CWB1320 specifies 3dB gain, while the EM-MX5152-MP specifies 2dBi gain. This 1dB difference represents a measurable but modest reduction in radiated power efficiency. The impact on system performance depends on link budget requirements and signal margin in the specific application.

Q: What does the RoHS compliance status of the EM-MX5152-MP indicate?

A: RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance indicates that the EM-MX5152-MP meets regulatory requirements restricting lead, cadmium, mercury, and other hazardous materials. The CWB1320 does not specify RoHS status. For applications subject to RoHS regulations or environmental standards, the EM-MX5152-MP provides documented compliance.

Q: Is the 100W power rating of the EM-MX5152-MP sufficient?

A: The EM-MX5152-MP is rated for 100W maximum power, compared to 200W for the CWB1320. Substitution is appropriate for applications operating at or below 100W. Systems requiring the full 200W capacity must retain the CWB1320 or identify an alternative with equivalent power rating.

Q: What is the MSL (Moisture Sensitivity Level) difference?

A: The CWB1320 specifies MSL 1 (unlimited moisture exposure tolerance), while the EM-MX5152-MP lists MSL as not applicable. This difference reflects different manufacturing and packaging standards. For applications with stringent moisture control requirements, the CWB1320's explicit MSL rating may be preferred, though the EM-MX5152-MP's active product status suggests current manufacturing standards are applied.

Q: Are there any packaging differences?

A: The CWB1320 packaging is listed as "-" (not specified), while the EM-MX5152-MP is supplied in bulk packaging. Bulk packaging is standard for active products and does not affect component functionality or performance.