Multi-Band Shark Fin Antenna Architecture

Raltron's RSK series represents a comprehensive family of shark fin antenna solutions designed for automotive and mobile IoT applications requiring reliable wireless connectivity on the move. The RSK series encompasses six distinct model configurations that combine GNSS positioning, cellular communication, Wi-Fi networking, and broadcast reception capabilities within aerodynamically optimized shark fin housings. The sehigh-performance antennas deliver powerful global connections through integrated multi-band operation featuring GNSS, LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth standards with omni-directional radiation patterns optimized for mobile platform deployment.

The RSK series addresses the growing demand for consolidated antenna solutions in connected vehicle and IoT applications by integrating multiple wireless communication functions within single mechanical assemblies. Each configuration utilizes durable ABS housing with UV stabilization, IP67 waterproof protection, and operating temperature range from-40°C to +80°C, ensuring reliable performance across demanding automotive and outdoor deployment scenarios.

Introduction

Modern automotive and IoT applications increasingly require simultaneous access to multiple wireless communication systems including satellite navigation, cellular data networks, local area networking, and broadcast reception. Traditional approaches utilizing separate antenna systems create installation complexity, aesthetic challenges, and potential performance issues that compromise system effectiveness and vehicle integration.

Raltron's RSK series shark fin antenna architecture addresses these challenges through integrated multi-band designs that consolidate multiple communication functions within aerodynamically optimized housings. The series provides six distinct product configurations ranging from dedicated cellular solutions to comprehensive multi-band systems incorporating GPS, cellular, Wi-Fi, AM/FM, and DAB functionality within single antenna assemblies.

The shark fin form factor offers significant advantages for automotive applications including aerodynamic efficiency, aesthetic integration, and simplified installation requirements.The RSK series leverages this architecture to deliver high-performance antenna systems suitable for vehicles requiring reliable global connections during mobile operation.

RSK Series Product Portfolio
RSK-MBG4-A-9162-1M-A-001: GPS/4G Antenna System

The RSK-MBG4-A-9162-1M-A-001 provides integrated GPS and 4G functionality within a single shark fin antenna assembly.This configuration combines GNSS positioning capabilities with 4G cellular communication, addressing applications requiring both location determination and mobile data connectivity. The GPS functionality supports global navigation satellite system reception while the integrated 4G capability enables cellular data communication for connected vehicle and IoT applications.

RSK-MH5-8453-1M-A-001: 4G Antenna System

The RSK-MH5-8453-1M-A-001 focuses exclusively on 4G cellular communication within the shark fin form factor. This dedicated 4G configuration provides cellular connectivity for applications requiring mobile data communication without additional navigation requirements. The single-function design enables optimization specifically for cellular performance characteristics.

RSK-MH5-9162-1M-A-001: 4G UltraWide-Band Antenna System

The RSK-MH5-9162-1M-A-001 extends 4G capability through ultra wide-band operation, addressing applications requiring cellular communication across extended frequency ranges. This configuration supports enhanced 4G performance and broader frequency coverage compared to standard cellular implementations.

RSK-MBF5-A-9162-1M-A-001 andRSK-MBF5-A-8453-1M-A-001: GPS/GSM Antenna Systems

The RSK-MBF5 series provides GPS positioning combined with GSM cellular communication within shark fin antenna assemblies. Two model variants (RSK-MBF5-A-9162-1M-A-001 andRSK-MBF5-A-8453-1M-A-001) accommodate different frequency requirements and regional deployment scenarios. These configurations enable both navigation andcellular communication through GSM networks.

RSK-MBE7-A-181068-FK-X-001:GPS+AM/FM+DAB+WIFI Combination Antenna

The RSK-MBE7-A-181068-FK-X-001 represents the most comprehensive configuration within the RSK series, integrating GPS navigation, AM/FM broadcast reception, DAB digital audio broadcasting, and Wi-Fi communication within a single antenna assembly. This combination antenna addresses applications requiring complete communication and entertainment functionality through consolidated multi-band operation.

RSK Series Product Overview and Basic Configurations

RSK Series Product Overview and Basic Configurations

Raltron RSK Series - Shark Fin Antenna Model Range and Functionality

RSK Series Shark Fin Antenna Product Range RSK-MBG4-A-9162-1M-A-001 GPS/4G ANTENNA Shark Fin Design • GNSS positioning • 4G cellular communication • Global connections RSK-MH5-8453-1M-A-001 4G ANTENNA Shark Fin Design • Dedicated 4G cellular • Mobile data communication • Single-function optimization RSK-MH5-9162-1M-A-001 4G Ultra Wide-Band Shark Fin Design • Extended 4G capability • Ultra wide-band operation • Enhanced frequency coverage RSK-MBF5 Series: GPS/GSM ANTENNA Two Model Variants Available RSK-MBF5-A-9162-1M-A-001 GPS + GSM Variant 9162 RSK-MBF5-A-8453-1M-A-001 GPS + GSM Variant 8453 RSK-MBE7-A-181068-FK-X-001 GPS+AM/FM+DAB+WIFI COMBINATION Complete Multi-Band Solution • GPS positioning • AM/FM broadcast • DAB digital audio • Wi-Fi networking Common RSK Series Features Design Features • Shark fin aerodynamic design • Anti-rotation mechanism • Ground plane independence • Omni-directional pattern Environmental • Operating: -40°C to +80°C • ABS housing with UV stable • IP67 waterproof protection • Vandalism resistant Mounting Options • Screw mount (thread & nut) • Adhesive attachment • Magnetic mounting • Easy installation Connectivity • SMA-Male connectors • 300cm standard cable • Customizable options • Custom connector types Performance • High-performance antennas • Global connections • Mobile applications • Multi-band operation RSK Series Applications Automotive Applications: • Connected vehicles requiring global connections on the move • Mobile platforms with GNSS, LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth requirements • High-performance antennas for powerful global connections • Vehicle integration requiring multiple communication functions IoT Applications: • Mobile IoT systems requiring multi-band connectivity • Applications needing reliable wireless communication standards • Internet of Things requiring mobile connectivity • Ruggedized construction for mobile deployment Communication Standards Supported Supported Standards: • GNSS positioning systems • LTE cellular communication • Wi-Fi networking standards • ISM band applications • Bluetooth wireless communication • GSM cellular networks • AM/FM and DAB broadcast reception • Omni-directional radiation patterns Key Features: • Light weight and economical shipping • Minimum weight impact on vehicles • Maximum durability for mobile use • Reliable performance across conditions

Figure 1: It presents the complete Raltron RSK series product range featuring six shark fin antenna configurations designed for automotive and IoT applications requiring reliable global connections onthe move. Each model combines different communication capabilities including GNSS positioning, cellular communication (4G/GSM), Wi-Fi networking, and broadcast reception within aerodynamically optimized shark fin housings.

All RSK series models share common design features including anti-rotation mechanisms, ground plane independence, and omni-directional radiation patterns. Environmental specifications include ABS housing with UV stabilization, IP67 waterproof protection, and operating temperature range from -40°C to +80°C, ensuring reliable performance in demanding automotive environments.

Connectivity Options: Standard configuration includes SMA-Male connectors with 300cm cable length, with full customization available for connector types, cable lengths, and cable specifications. Multiple mounting options (screw, adhesive,magnetic) provide installation flexibility while maintaining vandalism resistance and maximum durability for mobile applications.

 

Physical Design and Construction

Shark Fin Architecture

The RSK series utilizes aerodynamically optimized shark fin housing design that provides aesthetic integration with modern vehicle designs while minimizing air resistance and wind noise during mobile operation. The streamlined profile reduces drag impact compared to traditional antenna configurations while maintaining effective radiation characteristics across all integrated frequency bands.

Environmental Protection and Durability

All RSK series antennas feature robust construction designed for automotive and outdoor deployment requirements. The housing utilizes ABS material with UV stabilization, providing protection against solar radiation degradation and maintaining structural integrity overextended service life. The ABS construction offers excellent mechanical properties including impact resistance and dimensional stability suitable formobile applications.

Environmental protection includes IP67waterproof rating, ensuring complete protection against dust ingress andt emporary water immersion. This protection level addresses automotive requirements including car wash exposure and adverse weather conditions encountered during mobile operation.

The RSK series operates across temperature range from -40°C to +80°C, encompassing extreme conditions encountered inautomotive applications. This temperature specification covers both arctic climate operation and high-temperature exposure from direct solar heating and engine compartment proximity installations.

RSK Series Environmental Protection and Durability

RSK Series Environmental Protection and Durability

Robust Performance in Extreme Conditions

RSK Series Environmental Protection and Durability Features Operating Temperature Range -40°C to +80°C -40°C Extreme Cold 0°C Freezing 25°C Normal +80°C Extreme Heat FULL OPERATING RANGE Arctic conditions Winter operation Room temperature Direct solar heating ABS Housing with UV Stabilization Durable Construction Material ABS Plastic Housing UV Stabilized Protection ABS Material Benefits: • UV stabilization prevents degradation • Resistant to environmental exposure • Durable construction • Long-term reliability IP67 Waterproof Protection Complete Environmental Sealing Water Immersion Environment RSK Antenna IP67 Protection Level: • Complete dust protection (IP6) • Waterproof protection (IP7) Vandalism and Attack Resistance Secure Mounting and Durable Housing Thread and Nut Mounting Resistant to Direct Attack Security Features: • Thread and nut mounting available • Resistant to vandalism Installation and Performance Benefits Light Weight Minimal Impact Minimum weight impact on vehicles Easy Installation Anti-rotation mechanism Maximum durability Economical Shipping Light weight reduces shipping costs Robust Design Durable Housing Long-term reliability Automotive-grade Ground Plane Independence and Installation Flexibility Key Installation Features: • Ground plane independence enables installation on various vehicle surfaces • Screw mount antenna design provides easy installation with maximum durability • Anti-rotation mechanism prevents movement during operation and installation • IP67 waterproof robust plastic body makes it extremely light Mounting Flexibility: • Multiple mounting options: Screw, Adhesive, Magnetic • Thread and nut mounting available for secure attachment • Durable ABS housing resistant to vandalism and direct attack • High-performance antennas ideal for powerful global connections

Figure 2: The graph shows the comprehensive environmental protection and durability features of Raltron's RSK series sharkfin antennas. The operating temperature range from -40°C to +80°C ensures reliable performance from arctic conditions to extreme heat exposure, while ABS housing with UV stabilization provides long-term protection against solar radiation degradation.

IP67 waterproof protection delivers complete environmental sealing against dust ingress and water immersion,addressing automotive requirements including car wash exposure and adverse weather conditions. The vandalism-resistant construction features thread and nut mounting options that provide security against direct attacks while maintaining installation accessibility.

Installation Benefits: Light weight construction minimizes vehicle impact while reducingshipping costs, and the anti-rotation mechanism ensures proper orientationduring installation and operation. Ground plane independence enables flexiblemounting on various vehicle surfaces without performance degradation, providingmaximum installation versatility for diverse automotive applications.

 

Anti-Rotation Mechanism and Ground Plane Independence

The RSK series incorporates anti-rotation mechanisms that prevent antenna rotation during installation and operation, ensuring consistent orientation and preventing cable stress from mechanical movement. This feature simplifies installation while maintaining long-term mounting stability under vibration and thermal cycling conditions.

Ground plane independence enables installation on various vehicle surfaces without requiring specific groundplane dimensions or configurations. This design approach simplifies installation requirements and improves performance consistency across different vehicle platforms and mounting locations.

Mounting Configuration Options

The RSK series supports multiple mounting approaches including screw mounting, adhesive attachment, and magnetic mounting systems. This flexibility accommodates diverse installation requirements ranging from permanent vehicle integration to temporary deployment scenarios.

Screw mounting provides secure attachmentfor permanent installations, with thread and nut mounting configurations offering resistance to vandalism and direct attack. This mounting approach addresses security requirements for commercial and fleet applications.

Adhesive mounting enables installation on surfaces without drilling or mechanical fasteners, suitable for applications where vehicle modification restrictions apply. Magnetic mounting provides removable installation capability for applications requiring antenna portability.

RSK Series Mounting Configurations and System Integration

RSK Series Mounting Configurations and System Integration

Flexible Installation Options for Automotive and IoT Applications

RSK Series Mounting Configurations and System Integration Available Mounting Options Screw Mount Thread and Nut Mounting Anti-rotation mechanism Adhesive Mount High-Strength Adhesive No drilling required Magnetic Mount Magnetic Attachment Temporary installation Key Design Features Anti-Rotation Prevents rotation Ground Independence Works on any surface Vandalism Resistant Direct attack resistant Lightweight Minimal vehicle impact Standard Connectivity Specifications Standard Configuration SMA-Male 300cm Standard Cable Length SMA-Male Standard Connectors Customization Options Available Customizations: • Custom cable lengths • Alternative connector types • Custom cable specifications • Various connector options • Custom cable types • Application-specific options Installation and Performance Benefits Easy Installation • Simple mounting process • Anti-rotation design • Maximum durability • Reliable connection Omni-directional 360° Coverage Consistent Performance • Vehicle orientation independent • Reliable mobile operation • Multi-band integration • High-performance antennas Economical • Light weight construction • Economical shipping • Reduced installation cost • Long-term reliability

Figure 3: The graph illustrates comprehensive mounting configurations and system integration capabilities of Raltron's RSK series shark fin antennas. The three mounting options (screw, adhesive, magnetic) provide installation flexibility for diverse automotive and IoT applications, with thread and nut mounting offering secure attachment and vandalism resistance.

Key design features include anti-rotation mechanisms preventing antenna movement during installation and operation, ground plane independence enabling installation on various vehicle surfaces, and lightweight construction minimizing vehicle weight impact. Theomni-directional radiation pattern ensures consistent performance regardless of vehicle orientation during mobile operation.

Connectivity Standards: Standard configuration includes SMA-Male connectors with 300cmcable length, with comprehensive customization options available for connector types, cable lengths, and cable specifications. The economical design reduces shipping costs while maintaining maximum durability and reliable connection performance across demanding automotive environments.

 

Cable and Connector Specifications

Standard Configuration

The RSK series utilizes 300cm standard cable length with SMA-Male connector termination. This configuration provides sufficient cable length for most automotive installations while maintaining signal integrity through optimized cable length selection. The SMA-Male connector offers reliable RF performance with mechanical durability suitable for automotive vibration environments.

Customization Options

Raltron offers comprehensive customization capabilities for cable length, connector types, and cable specifications to address specific application requirements. Custom cable lengths accommodate installations with non-standard routing requirements, while alternative connector types support integration with diverse vehicle electronics and communication equipment.

The customization capability includes various connector options and cable types depending on application requirements and system integration needs. This flexibility supports integration with existing vehicle electronics while maintaining optimal RF performance characteristics.

Applications and Use Cases

Automotive Applications

The primary application domain for RSKseries antennas encompasses automotive systems requiring simultaneous access to satellite positioning, cellular data networks, and local connectivity options. Modern vehicle applications benefit from the reliable multi-band connectivity provided by integrated shark fin antenna solutions.

Connected vehicle systems utilize RSK series antennas for comprehensive communication capabilities including navigation, cellular data, and local networking. The consolidated antenna approach simplifies vehicle installation while providing the multiple communication functions required for advanced automotive applications.

IoT and Mobile Communications

Internet of Things applications requiring mobile connectivity benefit from RSK series multi-band capability and ruggedized construction. Mobile IoT deployments including asset monitoring, fleet tracking, and mobile sensor networks utilize the combined positioning and communication capabilities within single antenna assemblies.

The environmental protection and temperature specifications address the demanding conditions encountered in mobile IoT applications, ensuring reliable operation across diverse deployment scenarios and environmental conditions.

Installation and Integration

Vehicle Integration

RSK series installation accommodates standard automotive mounting requirements through multiple mounting options and ground plane independence. The shark fin form factor provides a esthetic integration with vehicle design while the anti-rotation mechanism ensures proper installation orientation and long-term stability.

Cable routing utilizes the 300cm standard length to accommodate typical automotive installation requirements, with custom cable options available for non-standard routing scenarios. The SMA-Male connector provides reliable connection to vehicle communication systems and aftermarket equipment.

Performance Considerations

The RSK series provides omni-directional radiation patterns optimized for mobile applications requiring consistent performance regardless of vehicle orientation. This radiation characteristic ensures reliable communication during vehicle movement and orientation changes encountered in mobile operation.

Multi-band integration within single antenna assemblies eliminates the complexity and potential interference issues associated with multiple discrete antenna installations while maintaining individual band performance characteristics.

Technical Specifications

Environmental Specifications
  • Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +80°C
  • Ingress Protection: IP67 (Dust-tight and waterproof)
  • Housing Material: ABS with UV stabilization
  • Vibration Resistance: Automotive-grade construction
Mechanical Specifications
  • Form Factor: Shark fin aerodynamic design
  • Mounting Options: Screw, Adhesive, Magnetic
  • Cable Length: 300cm standard (customizable)
  • Connector: SMA-Male standard (customizable)
  • Features: Anti-rotation mechanism, Ground plane independence
Communication Capabilities
  • GNSS: GPS positioning (select models)
  • Cellular: 4G/LTE, GSM (model-dependent)
  • Local Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth standards
  • Broadcast Reception: AM/FM, DAB (RSK-MBE7 model)
  • Radiation Pattern: Omni-directional

Conclusion

Raltron's RSK series shark fin antenna architecture provides comprehensive multi-band wireless connectivity solutionsfor automotive and IoT applications requiring reliable mobile communications. The six-model product portfolio addresses diverse connectivity requirements through configurations ranging from dedicated cellular systems to comprehensive multi-band solutions incorporating navigation, cellular, Wi-Fi, and broadcast capabilities.

The technical excellence of the RSK series stems from proven shark fin design principles that integrate multiple communication functions within aerodynamically optimized housings while maintaining individual band performance. Environmental specifications includingIP67 protection, extended temperature operation, and UV-stabilized construction ensure reliable performance across demanding automotive and mobile IoT deployment scenarios.

Installation flexibility through multiple mounting options, customizable cable configurations, and ground plane independence simplifies deployment while maintaining performance specifications across diverse vehicle platforms and installation requirements. The RSK series provides an optimal solution for modern connected vehicle and mobile IoT applications requiring consolidated multi-band antenna performance within aesthetically integrated shark fin form factors.

As connected vehicle technologies and mobile IoT applications continue expanding, the RSK series architecture provides the reliable, high-performance antenna foundation necessary for next-generation automotive and mobile communication requirements. The combination of technical performance, environmental durability, and installation convenience positions the RSK series as an effective solution for applications demanding robustmulti-band wireless connectivity in mobile environments.

Contact Us for Expert Shark Fin Antenna Solutions Support

For more information about Raltron's advanced RSK series multi-band shark fin antenna solutions for automotive, IoT,and mobile connectivity applications across GNSS, LTE, Wi-Fi, and broadcastf requency bands, contact our antenna specialists:

📧 Email:contact@sagacomponents.com
📞 Phone:+46 (0) 8 564 708 00
🌐 Web:www.sagacomponents.com

Let our automotive antenna engineering experts help you select the optimal shark fin antenna solutions for your connected vehicle, mobile IoT, and wireless communication applications. Request technical consultation, custom antenna integration services, or application-specific optimization with our specialists to enhance your next automotive or mobile connectivity project.

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References and Standards

Raltron Electronics References

https://www.raltron.com/webproducts/catalogs/Shark_Antenna.pdf

  • Raltron Electronics Corporation. "Automotive Grade     Antennas."

Industry Standards and Regulations
  • Automotive Standards: ISO 16750-4: Environmental conditions and testing for automotive equipment
  • GNSS Standards: ICD-GPS-200: Global Positioning System Interface Control Document
  • Wi-Fi Standards: IEEE 802.11: Wireless LAN Medium Access Control and Physical Layer Specifications
  • Environmental Testing: IEC 60068: Environmental testing procedures for electronic equipment
  • Automotive EMC: CISPR 25: Radio disturbance characteristics for automotive equipment
  • Antenna Performance: ITU-R BS.1534: Method for objective measurements of perceived audio quality
  • IP Protection: IEC 60529: Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)

Raltron Electronics RSK Series PartNumbers Quick Reference

RSK-MBG4-A-9162-1M-A-001: GPS/4G combination antenna for navigation and cellular connectivity
RSK-MH5-8453-1M-A-001: Dedicated 4G cellular antenna for mobile datacommunication
RSK-MH5-9162-1M-A-001: 4G Ultra Wide-Band antenna with enhanced frequency coverage
RSK-MBF5-A-9162-1M-A-001: GPS/GSM combination antenna (variant 9162)
RSK-MBF5-A-8453-1M-A-001: GPS/GSM combination antenna (variant 8453)
RSK-MBE7-A-181068-FK-X-001: Complete GPS+AM/FM+DAB+Wi-Fi combinationantenna

Standard Specifications: -40°C to +80°C operating temperature, IP67 waterproof, ABS/UVstable housing, SMA-Male connectors, 300cm standard cable, multiple mounting options available.