PLC1586 RF Antenna Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The PLC1586 is a 162MHz Yagi 6-Element RF antenna manufactured by TE Connectivity Laird, designed for VHF applications in the 158MHz to 166MHz frequency range. This antenna features a bracket mount configuration with 7.1dBi gain and a maximum power rating of 400W, terminated with UHF connectors.

The PLC1586 is classified as obsolete. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to maintain system functionality and ensure continued availability for applications requiring 162MHz VHF antenna solutions.

Substiute Parts

PLC1586

TE Connectivity LairdIn Stock: 958PLC1586 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

Y1505

TE Connectivity LairdIn Stock: 1001Y1505 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the PLC1586 is based on the following critical parameters:

Frequency Compatibility: The substitute part must operate at or near the 162MHz center frequency. The PLC1586 operates within 158MHz to 166MHz; substitute parts must support this frequency band or demonstrate overlap within the VHF frequency group (f < 300MHz).

Mounting Configuration: Both the main part and substitute must use bracket mount configurations to ensure mechanical compatibility with existing installation infrastructure.

Antenna Architecture: The PLC1586 uses a Yagi configuration. Substitute parts maintain Yagi antenna architecture to preserve radiation pattern and directional characteristics.

Connector Type Consideration: The PLC1586 uses UHF termination. Substitute parts may use alternative termination types (such as N Type Female) provided system-level connector adaptation is addressed at the integration level.

Power Rating: The PLC1586 supports 400W maximum power. Substitute parts must support equivalent or greater power handling to maintain system reliability.

Compliance Status: Both the main part and substitute must maintain RoHS compliance and MSL ratings suitable for the application environment.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

PLC1586 Obsolescence Status: The PLC1586 is classified as obsolete. The Y1505 is an active product from the same manufacturer (TE Connectivity Laird), ensuring continued availability and supply chain reliability.

Frequency Band Alignment: Both parts operate at 162MHz center frequency with overlapping frequency ranges within the VHF band. The Y1505 provides a broader frequency range (150MHz ~ 174MHz) compared to the PLC1586 (158MHz ~ 166MHz), offering extended operational flexibility.

Mechanical Integration: Both parts use bracket mount configurations. The Y1505 has a reduced maximum height (39.500" versus 64.016"), which may affect installation space requirements and wind loading characteristics in existing mounting structures.

Connector Compatibility: The PLC1586 uses UHF termination while the Y1505 uses N Type Female termination. System integration requires connector adaptation at the interface level.

Power Handling: The Y1505 supports 300W maximum power, which is lower than the PLC1586's 400W rating. Applications requiring power levels between 300W and 400W must be evaluated for compatibility.

Compliance Certification: Both parts maintain RoHS compliance and MSL 1 (Unlimited) ratings, ensuring environmental and moisture sensitivity compatibility.

Gain and Performance Metrics: The Y1505 provides 9.2dBd gain with specified VSWR (2) and Return Loss (-10dB), offering documented performance characteristics. The PLC1586 specifies 7.1dBi gain without VSWR or Return Loss data.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Y1505 directly replace the PLC1586 in existing installations?

A: The Y1505 is mechanically and electrically compatible at the antenna level for 162MHz VHF applications. However, connector type differs (N Type Female versus UHF). Direct replacement requires connector adaptation or system-level integration modifications.

Q: What is the impact of the different antenna element count (6 versus 5)?

A: The PLC1586 uses 6 elements while the Y1505 uses 5 elements. This architectural difference contributes to the gain differential (7.1dBi versus 9.2dBd). Both maintain Yagi antenna characteristics suitable for directional VHF reception and transmission.

Q: Does the reduced maximum height of the Y1505 affect performance?

A: The Y1505 maximum height is 39.500" compared to the PLC1586's 64.016". Physical height affects mechanical installation, wind loading, and mounting structure requirements. Antenna performance at 162MHz is determined by element configuration and frequency response, not physical height alone.

Q: Is the 300W power rating of the Y1505 sufficient for applications using the PLC1586?

A: Applications operating at or below 300W maximum power are fully compatible with the Y1505. Applications requiring power levels between 300W and 400W must be evaluated against the Y1505's specifications. The PLC1586 supports higher power levels.

Q: What are the compliance implications of substitution?

A: Both the PLC1586 and Y1505 maintain RoHS compliance and MSL 1 (Unlimited) ratings. Substitution does not introduce compliance risks from an environmental or moisture sensitivity perspective.

Q: How does the broader frequency range of the Y1505 affect system operation?

A: The Y1505 operates across 150MHz to 174MHz, encompassing the PLC1586's 158MHz to 166MHz range. The broader frequency range provides operational flexibility for applications requiring extended frequency coverage within the VHF band.

Q: Are there documented VSWR and Return Loss specifications for the PLC1586?

A: The PLC1586 specifications do not include VSWR or Return Loss data. The Y1505 provides VSWR of 2 and Return Loss of -10dB, offering quantified impedance matching characteristics for system design purposes.