Novatel ANT-533 User Manual

ANT-533 and ANT-533-N
USER GUIDE
The ANT-533 is an active
antenna designed to operate at
the GPS L1 and L2 frequencies,
1575.42 and 1227.60 MHz. This
guide provides the basic informa-
tion you need to install and begin
using your new antenna.
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
REQUIRED
The equipment listed below is required to set up the ANT-533:
• A mount, such as a range pole, tribrach, or tripod, with a
5/8" x 11 thread
• Coaxial cable with either a TNC connector for the ANT-
533, or an N-Type connector for the ANT-533-N
• A device with an antenna input port that both receives
the RF signal and provides 2.5 - 24.0 VDC to the
antenna (All NovAtel GPS receivers provide the neces-
sary power through their antenna RF connectors.)

SITE SELECTION GUIDELINES

Before installing the antenna, select a site that as closely as
possible meets the following conditions for optimal performance:
• An unobstructed line-of-sight from horizon to horizon
and at all bearings and elevation angles
• As far as possible from reflective objects, especially
those that are above the antenna and any water bodies,
which can be a strong source of multipath reflections
• If obstructions and reflective surfaces are within 30 m,
ensure the site is as high as possible. Otherwise, mount
the antenna as low as possible.
• For base station locations, ensure the antenna is in a
low-multipath location, close to the ground and away
from reflective objects.

INSTALLING THE ANTENNA

Both the input DC power and the output RF signal flow over a
single coaxial cable that is connected to the unit's TNC, or N-
Type, connector.
The antenna baseplate features an internal thread that accepts a
5/8" x 11 threaded bolt. This allows the antenna to be used on a
tripod.
Caution: Overtightening a bolt into the base may damage the base.
After a site has been selected, install the antenna as follows.
1. Verify that the thread on the mount does not extend more
than 1/2" (12 mm) to ensure the thread is not damaged
when the mount is inserted. If it extends further than 1/2" (12
mm), add two jam nuts to shorten the exposed thread,
ensuring the nuts are well-tightened.
2. Align the mount thread with the internal thread on the bottom
of the antenna and rotate the antenna clockwise until it is
securely screwed to the mount.
Ref. # Description
1 533 with radome
2 Internally threaded
3 TNC or N-Type
connector
4 Thread
5 Jam nuts or flange
6 Mount
2
4
3/8 - 1/2 9 - 12 mm "
5/8 x 11 "
5
6
3. Remove the dust cap from the antenna's TNC connector.
4. Attach the male TNC connector of the coaxial cable to the
antenna's TNC connector.
Ref. # Description
1 TNC or N-Type
connector
2 Coaxial cable
5. Attach the other end of the coaxial cable to the antenna input
1
port of the receiving device, which must provide power as
detailed in the SPECIFICATIONS section of this guide. All
NovAtel GPS receivers provide the necessary power
through their antenna RF connectors.

ANTENNA CARE

The ANT-533 is designed to withstand the elements, including
rain, snow, and dust. However, to ensure your antenna performs
3
optimally, keep the radome clean and brush off any ice and
snow. In addition, ensure the TNC, or N-Type, connector
" ( )
remains clean and dry and replace the dust cap when a cable is
not connected.
L1 ELEVATION GAIN PATTERN
dB
1
2
L2 ELEVATION GAIN PATTERN
dB