CWB1623 RF Antenna Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CWB1623 is a 168MHz whip straight RF antenna manufactured by TE Connectivity Laird, designed for VHF applications in the 162MHz to 174MHz frequency range. This antenna features an NMO base mount termination and is rated for 200W maximum power with 3dB gain and 2 VSWR. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of compatible substitute components essential for system maintenance, repair, and continued operation in legacy installations.

Substiute Parts

CWB1623

TE Connectivity LairdIn Stock: 709CWB1623 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

EM-MX5162-MP

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

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the CWB1623 is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Frequency range: 162MHz – 174MHz (center 168MHz)
• Antenna type: Whip, straight configuration
• Termination: NMO connector
• Mounting type: Base mount
• Frequency group: VHF

Allowable Variation Parameters:

• Gain: Substitute may differ (CWB1623 specifies 3dB; substitutes may operate at 2dBi or similar values within VHF whip antenna performance envelope)
• Power rating: Substitute must meet or exceed 200W requirement; lower ratings are not acceptable
• VSWR: Substitute specifications may vary; values within typical VHF antenna performance are acceptable
• Product status: Active products are preferred for obsolete originals

The EM-MX5162-MP qualifies as a substitute based on matching frequency range, antenna type, NMO termination, and base mount configuration. Differences in gain (2dBi vs. 3dB) and power rating (100W vs. 200W) are noted for engineering evaluation.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The EM-MX5162-MP is identified as a functional substitute for the obsolete CWB1623 based on matching core RF and mechanical parameters. The following engineering considerations apply:

Compatibility Factors:

• Both antennas operate identically across the 162MHz – 174MHz frequency band with NMO base mount termination
• Mechanical form factor (whip, straight) and mounting interface are identical
• Active product status of EM-MX5162-MP ensures ongoing availability and supply chain continuity

Performance Variation:

• Gain difference (2dBi vs. 3dB) represents a 1dB reduction in directivity; system-level impact depends on link budget and application requirements
• Power rating difference (100W vs. 200W) indicates the substitute is rated for lower maximum input power; applications requiring full 200W operation must evaluate this limitation
• VSWR specification for EM-MX5162-MP is not provided; impedance matching performance cannot be directly compared

Compliance Status:

• EM-MX5162-MP carries RoHS Compliant certification; CWB1623 RoHS status is not specified
• ECCN classification differs (EAR99 vs. 5A991G); export control requirements must be verified for specific applications

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can EM-MX5162-MP directly replace CWB1623 in existing installations?

A: Mechanical and electrical interfaces are compatible (NMO termination, base mount, identical frequency range). However, the 100W power rating of EM-MX5162-MP is lower than the 200W rating of CWB1623. Applications operating at or near 200W maximum power must evaluate whether 100W rating is acceptable for their specific use case.

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

A: CWB1623 specifies 3dB gain while EM-MX5162-MP specifies 2dBi gain. In RF link calculations, this represents a 1dB reduction in antenna directivity. System performance impact depends on link margin, distance, and receiver sensitivity. Applications with tight link budgets should account for this reduction.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these parts?

A: CWB1623 packaging is listed as "-" (not specified). EM-MX5162-MP is supplied in Bulk packaging. Procurement and handling procedures may differ; verify packaging requirements with your supply chain.

Q: Why is the VSWR specification missing for EM-MX5162-MP?

A: VSWR data is not provided in the substitute part specification. For applications where impedance matching is critical, contact the manufacturer (Nearson Inc.) to obtain VSWR performance data before final selection.

Q: Does RoHS compliance affect substitution?

A: EM-MX5162-MP is RoHS Compliant. CWB1623 RoHS status is not specified. If your application or regulatory environment requires RoHS compliance, EM-MX5162-MP meets this requirement. Verify compliance requirements for your specific end-use.

Q: What is the difference between dB and dBi gain specifications?

A: Both dB and dBi are gain measurements for antennas. The specifications provided (3dB for CWB1623 and 2dBi for EM-MX5162-MP) indicate antenna directivity. The 1dB difference reflects different antenna performance characteristics within the VHF whip antenna category.