Laird 5db ground plane or Laird 5db no ground plane?

[WRFV510]

I just bought a 2021 Silverado 2500HD and want to put my radio in it.  Instead of dropping the headliner im going to put a back Rack on it and put a Laird BB4505CR (requires ground plane) or a BB4505CNS (no ground plane). Both are 5db gain. If I used the BB4505CR that requires a ground plane. I would have to make a plate to put it on. If I remember it requires a 7" ground plane. Would 7" be best or if I made it 10" would that be better?  or I could just cut a 3/4" hole in the middle of the back rack and use a BB4505CNs no ground plane. 

[kidphc]

Generally, a no ground plane antenna will work better then one requiring one and fabbing one.

 

A no ground plane antenna will work even better with some ground plane available.

 

I would do the 10". Make sure the rack has continutiy to the bed and cab. In which case make increase the available groundplane.

 

I would expect some radiation pattern biases due to proximity of other metal surfaces ie, cab, bed trunks and the bed.

[WRFV510]

so basically drilling a hole in the center of the cab roof would still be best.  Thats not possible on my truck as the sun roof slides under the roof skin.

[kidphc]

Pretty much. Had some what the same problem with my burb. The sunroof slid so far back it limited some options.

 

So even a mag mount might work better then a permanent install. Some options on your truck. But even then everything is going to be a compromise of sorts.

 

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