FRX406 RF Antenna Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The FRX406 is a 418MHz whip straight RF antenna manufactured by TE Connectivity Laird, designed for UHF band applications spanning 406MHz to 430MHz. This component features an N Type Female termination with bracket mount configuration and delivers 5dBi gain at 150W maximum power handling. The FRX406 is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent substitute parts essential for system redesign, maintenance, and procurement planning. Active alternative models with compatible electrical and mechanical parameters are available to support continued application deployment.

Substiute Parts

FRX406

TE Connectivity LairdIn Stock: 1203FRX406 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

FG4060

TE Connectivity LairdIn Stock: 1060FG4060 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the FRX406 is determined by alignment across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Compatibility Criteria:

• Frequency Group: UHF (300MHz – 1GHz)
• Antenna Type: Whip, Straight configuration
• Termination: N Type Female connector
• Mounting Type: Bracket Mount
• RoHS Compliance: Required

Performance Parameters Defining Substitution Scope:

• Frequency Range overlap with 406MHz – 430MHz band
• VSWR performance (lower values indicate better impedance matching)
• Power handling capacity (minimum 100W for most applications)
• Gain specification (measured in dBi or dBd)

The FG4060 qualifies as a substitute part based on shared UHF frequency group classification, identical whip straight antenna type, N Type Female termination, bracket mount configuration, and RoHS compliance status. Frequency range overlap occurs within the 406MHz – 416MHz band, supporting applications requiring operation in the lower portion of the FRX406 specification window.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

FRX406 Status: Obsolete. Direct replacement with original part number is not available through standard procurement channels.

FG4060 Substitution Basis: The FG4060 is an active product from the same manufacturer (TE Connectivity Laird) with identical mechanical interface (N Type Female, bracket mount, whip straight configuration) and UHF frequency group classification. Both parts maintain RoHS compliance and MSL 1 rating, ensuring environmental and regulatory compatibility.

Application Scope Considerations: The FG4060 operates within a narrower frequency range (406MHz – 416MHz) compared to the FRX406 (406MHz – 430MHz). Applications requiring operation above 416MHz fall outside the FG4060 specification window. The FG4060 supports 100W maximum power versus 150W for the FRX406, and exhibits higher VSWR (2.0 versus 1.5), indicating reduced impedance matching performance. Physical height differs significantly: FG4060 measures 26 inches versus FRX406 at 46 inches, affecting form factor and installation envelope.

Selection Logic: Choose FG4060 for applications operating within 406MHz – 416MHz band with power requirements not exceeding 100W and where reduced physical height is acceptable or beneficial. For applications requiring full 406MHz – 430MHz coverage or 150W power handling, alternative substitute parts outside the provided dataset must be evaluated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the FG4060 directly replace the FRX406 in all applications?

A: No. The FG4060 operates within a narrower frequency range (406MHz – 416MHz) and supports lower maximum power (100W versus 150W). Substitution is valid only for applications operating within the FG4060 frequency specification and power requirements.

Q: What is the significance of VSWR difference between FRX406 (1.5) and FG4060 (2.0)?

A: VSWR measures impedance matching quality at the antenna connector. The FRX406 exhibits superior impedance matching (lower VSWR value). The FG4060 VSWR of 2.0 remains within acceptable engineering tolerances for UHF whip antenna applications but indicates greater reflected power at the feed point.

Q: Why is the FG4060 physically shorter (26 inches versus 46 inches)?

A: Physical antenna length is determined by design frequency and gain specification. The FG4060 center frequency (411MHz) and gain specification (0dBd) differ from the FRX406 (418MHz center, 5dBi gain), resulting in different mechanical dimensions. Height difference reflects these electrical design parameters.

Q: Are both parts RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. Both FRX406 and FG4060 carry RoHS Compliant status and MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity rating, ensuring compatibility with environmental and regulatory requirements.

Q: What does "Gain: 5dBi" versus "Gain: 0dBd" mean for substitution?

A: dBi and dBd are different gain reference standards. The FRX406 specifies 5dBi (referenced to isotropic radiator), while FG4060 specifies 0dBd (referenced to dipole). These represent different antenna performance characteristics. Direct numerical comparison between dBi and dBd values is not valid without conversion.

Q: Can the FG4060 handle 150W power like the FRX406?

A: No. The FG4060 maximum power rating is 100W. Applications requiring 150W power handling must use the FRX406 or identify alternative substitute parts with higher power specifications.

Q: Are both parts available in the same packaging?

A: The FRX406 is listed as obsolete with 1126 pieces in stock (legacy inventory). The FG4060 is active product status with 1025 pieces available in Bulk packaging. Packaging format differs between the two parts.