The Procom CXL 2-1L W/H is a professional-grade, omnidirectional VHF marine antenna designed for reliable communication on the primary marine VHF band. Its “Low Profile” (L) whip design makes it a robust and practical choice for a wide range of vessels.
Key Features & Specifications
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Manufacturer: Procom (a reputable brand under Amphenol, known for durable marine communication products).
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Model:Â CXL 2-1L W/H
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Frequency Range: 155 – 175 MHz. This perfectly covers the critical Marine VHF Band (156 – 174 MHz), including:
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Channel 16 (156.8 MHz) – The international hailing and distress frequency.
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All standard ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore working channels.
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Public Correspondence channels (Marine Operator).
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Port operations and ship movement services.
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Gain: 0 dBd (typically stated as 3 dBi). This is the standard “Unity” or “1/4-wave” gain for a true omnidirectional antenna. It provides a perfect “doughnut” shaped radiation pattern, ensuring excellent all-around coverage without dead zones, which is essential for safety at sea.
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Power Handling: 50 Watts (Max.). This handles the full legal output power of any fixed-mount marine VHF radio, which typically transmits at 25W or 1W.
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Polarization:Â Vertical. This is mandatory for marine VHF communications to ensure compatibility with all other antennas and coast stations.
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Impedance:Â 50 Ohms. The standard for marine radio equipment.
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Radiation Pattern:Â Omnidirectional.
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Connection: Almost certainly includes an integrated low-loss coaxial cable (like RG-8X or RG-58) with a PL-259 (UHF) connector, ready to plug into the back of a VHF radio.
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Construction:
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Radiator:Â A flexible, corrosion-resistant stainless steel whip. The “Low Profile” (L) means it is shorter and sturdier than a full 8-foot antenna, reducing the risk of damage from bridges, trees, or rigging.
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Base & Coil:Â Built with marine-grade materials (e.g., brass, stainless steel, high-impact plastic) and finished with a protective coating (e.g., chrome) to resist saltwater corrosion and UV damage.
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Mounting: Designed for permanent installation on a flat surface using a ¼-wave mount. It requires a hole to be drilled for the cable to pass through.
Who is this antenna for? (Ideal User)
This antenna is an excellent all-rounder suitable for virtually any vessel that uses a fixed-mount VHF radio:
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Recreational Boaters:Â Sailboats and powerboats of all sizes.
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Fishing Vessels:Â Commercial and recreational.
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Workboats:Â Tugs, pilot boats, ferries (for auxiliary comms).
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Any mariner who values a durable, low-profile antenna that performs reliably on the standard marine VHF band.