ICOM AH-38 Passive Satellite Antenna System

Satellite Communication from a Fixed Location

The AH-38 moves the IC-SAT100 antenna connection to an outdoor location where satellite signals are less likely to be blocked by walls, roofing, or surrounding equipment. This makes it useful for offices, temporary command sites, shelters, remote facilities, and other fixed installations where the handheld radio must be operated indoors.

The antenna must be installed vertically with a clear view of the sky. ICOM specifies that buildings, trees, and other obstacles should remain below approximately 8° around the antenna.

Passive Antenna Design

Unlike the powered AH-41 antenna system, the AH-38 is a passive antenna and does not use an external power box. It connects directly to the IC-SAT100 through a compatible coaxial cable, creating a simpler installation for shorter cable runs.

Because the system has no active signal amplification, cable selection is important. Total cable loss between the radio and antenna must be less than 3.4 dB at 1,500 MHz.

Cable Options

ICOM offers the OPC-2113 coaxial cable, which is 10 m / 32.8 ft long and has Type-N and SMA connectors for connecting the AH-38 to the IC-SAT100.

Longer user-supplied cables may also be used when they meet the required loss limit. ICOM provides the following reference lengths:

• LMR-240: Up to 9 m / 29.5 ft
• LMR-300: Up to 11 m / 36.1 ft
• LMR-400: Up to 17 m / 55.8 ft
• LMR-500: Up to 22 m / 72.2 ft
• LMR-600: Up to 27 m / 88.6 ft
• LMR-900: Up to 45 m / 147.6 ft

These are reference values based on cable loss at 1,500 MHz. Actual suitability should be confirmed for the complete cable and connector assembly.

Outdoor Pole Installation

The AH-38 mounts to a vertical pole measuring 32 mm / 1.3 in in diameter using the supplied V-bolts, bracket, nuts, and washers. ICOM specifies at least 10 m / 32 ft of separation from other antennas.

The outdoor coaxial connection should be wrapped with the supplied rubber vulcanizing tape and then covered with suitable electrical tape to help prevent water entry.

Environmental Protection

The AH-38 carries an IP66 rating, providing dust-tight protection and resistance to powerful water jets. It operates in temperatures from -30°C to +60°C, allowing permanent outdoor installation in a wide range of climates.