Mobile TV Antennas

Hello Everyone!

Well, I can say I know plenty about automotive electrical systems since I am an engineer who designs them. However, I know nothing about mobile television antennas! I just wrapped up the installation of a complete Kenwood Mobile Entertainment/Navigation System in my 98 Chevy Extended Cab Pickup. The system is used for navigation and entertainment on the long trips my wife and I take towing our camper to distant destinations. I installed a KVT-910DVD headunit, KNA-DV2100 Nav. Unit, KDS-P901 Surround Sound Decoder, C929 CD-changer, and KSC-900CTR Center Channel Speaker in the relatively tight-confines of the truck (came out great). Anyway, the only portion of the installation I do not care for is the diversity antennas. Although the reception is excellent when stationary and good in motion, I can't stand the awkward, tacked-on look on the diversity antennas in the rear window. Not to mention they are a dead giveaway as to what's inside the truck.

Does anyone know anything about concealed antennas for mobile TV? Yeah, I recollect the famous boomerang design mounted on mini-van roofs and limo trunks, but I've been told there are now membrane types that can be installed hidden above the headliner. Unfortunately, I cannot locate any manufacturers or find any technical information about them and if they have a decent reception or not. Any help would be appreciated! I don't want to give up the benefits of local TV reception in the truck as it's invaluable to get weather reports when camping remotely. TIA

George in Texas

Hi George, Sony used to make a diversity antenna system that looked similar to a windshield antenna that you would install on the front and rear (and even the sides), but I haven't been able to find any information for it online. However, here's a site to check out: http://www.meisearch.com/directory/Mobile_Video/Manufacturers/  Unfortunately his redirect application is fubar at the moment, but you can still copy and paste the links into your browser. Let us know if you find anything better than what you already have.

the12volt

Thanks 12volt!

I'll look through the links over the weekend... Hopefully will find something. I did get some contact information for a coach builder (limo builder) from my company's marketing department so I'll try that too. I'll be sure to let everyone know what I find!