No Ground Plane 27MC antennas – Reliable CB communication without ground
Do you have a vehicle or vessel without a metal chassis or surface? Then you need a No Ground Plane (NGP) 27MC antenna. These antennas are specifically designed for situations where there's no suitable metal ground plane – ideal for use on fiberglass RVs, boats, motorcycles, and caravans.
What is a No Ground Plane antenna?
A No Ground Plane antenna operates without direct contact with a metal vehicle body or chassis. Instead of a traditional ground connection, an NGP antenna uses the coaxial cable (shield) as a counter pole. This prevents high SWR values and damage to your equipment.
If you use a standard CB antenna on a vehicle without ground, you risk:
- Poor performance and short transmission range
- High SWR (Standing Wave Ratio)
- Possible damage to your transceiver
When do you use a No Ground 27MC antenna?
- Fiberglass vehicles such as campers, caravans and motorhomes
- Boats with plastic or fiberglass hulls
- Engines and vehicles without a metal body
- Campers with a superstructure in which the antenna is not placed on the metal vehicle part
- Installations where a suitable ground surface is not possible
Key Benefits of NGP Antennas
- Universally applicable on non-conductive surfaces
- Complete kits available including NGP coaxial cable
- Good performance despite lack of mass
- Easy installation without additional ground connections
- Safe for your equipment, prevents harmful SWR reflections
Does a No Ground Plane antenna have less range?
Although an NGP antenna is slightly less efficient than a standard antenna with a full metal ground plane, it's the best and safest solution in situations without ground. You maintain a reliable transmission and reception signal without any technical risks.
Brands and applications
Deltron supplies high-quality NGP antennas from trusted brands for use on:
- Campers (surface mounting)
- Boats (plastic hulls)
- Off-road and 4x4 (mounting in different positions)
- Motorcycles (small, low-mass vehicles)
- Smooth trucks or coated vehicles
Note: Always use the supplied NGP coaxial cable – it is essential for correct operation.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about NGP Antennas
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When do I need a No Ground Plane antenna?
If your vehicle or boat does not have a metal surface under or around the antenna, an NGP antenna is the only right choice to avoid high SWR.
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Can I use an NGP antenna on a metal vehicle?
No, an NGP antenna is specifically designed for use without a ground. A standard CB antenna works better on a metal vehicle.
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Can I install an NGP kit myself?
Yes, NGP antennas are often supplied as a complete set with coax, connectors, and clear instructions. Choosing a good mounting position is important.
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What if my signal is weak?
Check that your NGP cable is connected correctly, or consider a longer antenna or a higher mounting position. A small power amplifier can sometimes help as well.