G P S / G N S S A n t e n n a I n s t a l l a t i o n G u i d e l i n e s
7 | P a g e
The lightning arrestor interconnects the indoor and outdoor segmentsof the cable, at indoor entry
point. It must be installed by a certified electrician. The lightning arrestor must be properly
grounded to allow correct discharge of any excess current created on the antenna and cable.
The Lightning Arrestor provided by Fibrolan is includes 2 female TNC connectors. If the arrestor is
sourced elsewhere, it should only be from a certified vendor and ensure low insertion loss
(typically 0.1dB).
2.2.3 In-Line Amplifier
In case the total gain at the Falcon GNSS input drops below 15dB an in-line amplifier is required.
For example, Fibrolan’s GNSS antenna model GPANT-4's gain is 28dB, which can be translated to
a maximum of 13dB attenuation for the entire transmission system (indoor+ outdoor) without
amplification. The ideal position of the In-Line Amplifier would be near the receiver. The gain at
the edge of amplified segment (from the amplifier) connected to the Falcon GNSS input should
not exceed 30dB (to avoid saturation).
While selecting an In-Line (unless sourced from Fibrolan) assure it provides 5V towards to antenna
The introduction of in-line amplifiers further complicates the transmission system, therefore –
unless user has extensive knowledge and expertise in this field –it is highly recommended to
consult Fibrolan or a professional installer. Up to 30dB amplifiers are available from Fibrolan.
Unless the antenna is already purchased or installed, it is recommended to avoid using the
amplifier and rather select a higher gain antenna instead –in most of the cases this may prove
better both economically and operationally.
2.2.4 Splitter
If the Antenna is connected to more than a single device a splitter is required. The Antenna must
be connected to the splitter’s input interface. The Falcon's GNSS receiver should be connected to
the DC Through output port when not using external power. If an externally powered splitter is
installed all ports should be DC Blocked and the antenna is fed by the external source. As Passive
splitters introduce additional attenuation, they are not recommended, and it is advised to consult
the manufacture datasheet before installation. Active splitters are the preferred type, as they also
function as an amplifier. Splitters are available in various output interface configuration.
Figure-6: Splitter connectivity options
2.2.5 Adapter
Some Falcon models (e.g. µFibrolan-MX/G) models, equipped with a GNSS receiver, use an SMA
connector (female) for antenna input. Therefore, a TNC (Female) -SMA (Male) adapter may be
required (available from Fibrolan or may be sourced elsewhere).
Falcon models equipped with a TNC connector do not require such adapter.
