The Procom Pro CXL 3-1LW is a very high-quality, low-profile communications antenna designed for fixed installation on aircraft. It operates in the VHF (Very High Frequency) Aeronautical Band, which is used for all primary air-to-ground and air-to-air voice communications.
The “LW” in the model number typically stands for Low Weight or Light Weight, indicating it’s designed to minimize mass, a critical factor in aviation.
Key Features
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Aeronautical VHF Band:Â Tuned specifically for the 118-137 MHz range, which is exclusively for aviation communication (e.g., talking to Air Traffic Control, Tower, Ground, and other aircraft).
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Low Profile & Lightweight:Â Designed to have minimal aerodynamic drag and weight impact on the aircraft, a key requirement for all avionics components.
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Durable Construction:Â Built to withstand extreme environmental conditions, including high airspeeds, vibration, temperature fluctuations, UV exposure, and corrosion.
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Low VSWR:Â Features a optimized Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) across its frequency range. A low VSWR (close to 1:1) means maximum power is transmitted from the radio to the antenna instead of being reflected back, ensuring clear transmission and reception.
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Composites Base:Â Often features a robust composite base that is both strong and non-corrosive.
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Lightning Protection:Â Likely includes provisions or is designed to be part of the aircraft’s overall lightning protection system.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Procom (A well-regarded manufacturer of professional antennas, especially in the aviation and marine sectors). | |
| Model Number | Pro CXL 3-1LW | “CXL” is likely the series, “3-1” may refer to the gain or design, “LW” for Light Weight. |
| Part Number | 1326330400 | This is the specific manufacturer part number for ordering. |
| Type | VHF Communications Antenna (Blade Antenna) | |
| Frequency Range | 118 – 137 MHz | The standard aeronautical VHF band. |
| Bandwidth | 19 MHz | Covers the entire allocated band. |
| VSWR | Typically < 1.5:1 across the entire band | Excellent efficiency. |
| Impedance | 50 Ohms | Standard for all commercial and aviation radio equipment. |
| Polarization | Vertical | Standard for VHF air communications. |
| Gain | Likely near 0 dBi (Omnidirectional) | Provides a consistent “doughnut” shaped radiation pattern for communication regardless of aircraft attitude. |
| Power Handling | 100 Watts (or more) | Far exceeds the output of any standard aircraft VHF radio (which are usually 10-25W). |
| Connector Type | SO-239 (UHF) or TNC | A connector compatible with standard RG-58 or similar coaxial cable. The specific type should be confirmed. |
| Mounting | Flush Mount | Requires a specific hole pattern to be drilled into the aircraft’s skin. |
| Height / Profile | Low Profile (Specific height in inches/mm would be in the datasheet) | Designed for minimal drag. |
Application & Usage
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Primary Use: Aircraft VHF Communication. This is the primary antenna for the #1 or #2 VHF COMM radio in an aircraft.
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Installation: It is a permanent, flush-mounted antenna typically installed on the top or bottom of the aircraft’s fuselage for optimal signal coverage.
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Typical Aircraft:
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General Aviation (Piston singles and twins like Cessnas, Pipers)
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Business Jets
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Helicopters
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It may also be used on ground-based equipment at airports.
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Important Notes
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Certification: This is a FAA-PMA (Parts Manufacturer Approval) part. This means it is certified as an airworthy replacement for original equipment on specific aircraft models. It is not a generic consumer antenna.
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Professional Installation Required: Installation on an aircraft MUST be performed by a licensed aircraft mechanic (A&P). This includes:
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Drilling precise holes in the airframe.
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Sealing the installation to prevent water ingress.
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Properly routing and connecting the coaxial cable.
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Logging the installation in the aircraft’s permanent records.
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Performance:Â The performance of any antenna is highly dependent on a proper ground plane (the aircraft’s metal skin). Installation location is critical for optimal performance.
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Maintenance:Â Like all external aircraft components, it must be inspected during regular aircraft maintenance cycles for damage, integrity, and corrosion.
Where to Find More Information
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Procom (a division of ADC USA, Inc.):Â The manufacturer’s website or product catalog will have the official technical datasheet, installation drawing, PMA eligibility list, and STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) information.
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Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Co.:Â A major supplier of aircraft parts; their website often has detailed specs and PMA information for products like this.
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Official Documentation: The part number 1326330400 is the key to finding the exact installation manual and PMA paperwork, which are absolutely essential before purchase and installation.
