CaravanPress

Triax Ufo is a small and lightweight antenna and thus it is ideally suited for motorhomes and caravans. The size is 325 x 325 x 65 mm and weight only 250 g. Ufo is an active antenna with omni-directional reception pattern.

The antenna is shipped with a separate power supply that feeds the power to the antenna electronics. The power supply should be placed inside a motorhome. There is no need for separate power wires from the supply to the antenna. The power is fed by biasing the antenna cable.

Experiences

I have used the antenna several weeks and in many different locations. The reception quality has been great and I have had very little problems to get the TV channels visible. The experience has been better than with a traditional antenna. I have even managed to get a perfect picture without lifting the antenna at all sometimes even though my motorhome has a metal roof.

The noise figure is better than what most antenna amplifiers have, so Ufo holds quality electronics. Due to the omni-directional reception there has been less need to direct the antenna towards a transmitting mast. The current consumption has been negligible. The Ufo has not introduced any noises while driving.

Several models available

Triax has several Ufo models available. There’s separate devices for caravan, marine, and home use. The model under review is intended for home use (part no. 109690). It differs from the mobile model with the gray color and missing clamp. The mounting base however is such that it can be attached to an antenna mast with a clamp. The dealers did not have any clamps on stock, so I made the installation with three large cable ties. The Ufo has stayed firmly in place.

I wanted the 230 V version, since I’m using the antenna with inverter. You can get the most easiest installation if your DVB-T receiver can supply the antenna.

Here’s a summary about the differencies between the models:

• Part no. 109694: Powered up by the DVB-T receiver
• Part no. 109690: 230 V power supply
• Part no. 109695: Powered up by the DVB-T receiver, includes FM reception for radio

Technical details

Type: Ufo Home digital, UHF
Channels: 21 - 69
Frequency: 470 - 862 MHz
Gain: 16 dB (13 dB +- 3 dB)
Noise figure: 2.5 dB
Output voltage: 100 dBuV
Return loss: > 10 dB
Impedance: 75 Ohm
Beamwidth: 90 deg. vertical / 360 deg. horizontal
Power supply: 230 V 50 mA

Summary

There’s no reason to get a traditional antenna for motorhomes and caravans anymore. Most common price for the Ufo is around 100 euros in Finland.

Highly recommended!