AX350D Direction Finding HF/VHF Antenna

(Preliminary)

The AX350D is an optional antenna for the WD-7200 Direction Finding System, optimised for longer range direction-finding operations in the tactical communication band in the frequency band from 20 to 88 MHz. It maintains the WD-7200's main advantages of fast deployment and portability.

The antenna is based on the Watson-Watt method. This method, combined with the vertically polarised 4-element H-dipole Adcock array, provides the AX350D antenna with the capability to operate with excellent sensitivity in the low VHF frequency range. Using this antenna, the WD-7200 system unit compares amplitude and phase differences between the electronically switched dipole antennas against the internally derived signals.

The twin receivers of the WD-7200 processing unit ensures that the monitored audio is not degraded by the antenna processing signals.

The antenna is designed for effective DF against tactical communication signals, in the band 20-88 MHz, at typical distances of several tens of kilometres, (depending on the type of terrain and the transmitted power). All power and control signals to the antenna are provided through one multi-conductor control cable via the standard WD-7200 system unit. The received signal with encoded bearing information is routed to the receiver through an RF coaxial cable. The AX350D is fully compatible with the existing standard WD-7200 system unit and does not require any other add-ons or modifications for operation.

Each antenna in the WD-7200 family has a specific role to play. The AX320D is a small, general purpose Adcock antenna covering 2-280 MHz, and allowing DF of HF and VHF signals. The AX340 antenna, also small, covers 200-2000 MHz, and is primarily aimed at digital communications in this range, utilising interferometry DF methods.

Software

At the heart of the WD-7200-AX350D system is its sophisticated digital signal processing software. In addition to the standard WR-G3xDDC-style graphical user interface, the system software executes all of the complex mathematical functions and associated processes.

The system is entirely software-defined, which means that additional features and modes can easily be added by means of simple software changes. The azimuth displays are established against the North reference. A dynamically adjustable buffer enables the user to average the bearing samples over time, effectively minimising bearing degradation due to reflections. Histogram and waterfall displays greatly assist the operator.

Technical specifications
Frequency range	20 to 88 MHz
Polarization	Vertical
Azimuth coverage	360°
Antenna type	Watson-Watt 4-element H-dipole Adcock array
Bearing accuracy	2° RMS typ. (20 to 88 MHz)
Weight (without tripod)	10.4 kg (23 lb)
Dimensions	Height: 90 mm (3.5") without antenna elements, 1520 mm (59.8") with antenna elements installed Width and Depth 880 mm square (34.6")

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AX350D Direction Finding HF/VHF Antenna

Software