IMPORTANT: Rotate the cable counterclockwise while turning the Thread Adapter
clockwise. Make sure the cable turns freely and does not bind.
Choose a mounting location.
The SRA-50 antenna must be mounted horizontally in a location
that is open and has a clear view of the sky. It must be mounted away from any metal objects or
other structures that could block the line-of-sight reception of the satellite signal. The height of the
antenna is not as important as having a clear view of the horizon. To determine the best location for
the SRA-50, hold the Satellite Shooter template (back page) horizontally at the chosen mounting
location and follow the instructions on the template. Scan a full circle with the Shooter to make
sure no obstacles block the antenna’s view of the sky from overhead.
The Pedestal mounting requires a flat, not curved surface, or the antenna can be mounted on
the 1”-14 thread end of a
marine antenna
extension mast or a Shakespeare Style 4720 Rail Mount
(each sold separately). The antenna’s cable can be routed through a hole in the mounting surface,
through the Pedestal, or through the extension mast.
IMPORTANT:
In choosing how and where to mount the antenna, consider the accessibility of the area
underneath, and whether the area is clear of any wires or other obstructions. Choose a convenient
pathway for running the coax cable as far as possible from other electrical cables.
If the distance between the antenna and your Satellite receiver is more than 25 feet, special
Shakespeare cable kits are available (see Optional Accessories, back page). Acquire the appropriate
kit before proceeding.
SURFACE MOUNTING
If you are attaching the antenna directly to a flat surface,
the cable with its connector attached
can be routed through a 9/16” hole drilled in the mounting surface.
Do not cut the cable and do not remove the connector.
Step 1:
Drill a 9/16" mounting hole. For mounting surfaces from 1/4" to 1" thick, use the
extension shaft (supplied).
· Route the 6" antenna lead with TNC female connector through the center of the extension
shaft.
· Thread the Extension Shaft onto the existing antenna shaft and tighten.
Step 2:
Pass the connector, cable, and shaft (if used) from the SRA-50 through the hole.
SRA-50 antenna
Mounting Holes for
Low-Profile
Base Mounting
Base
Base Gasket
Pedestal Top
Pedestal Bottom
Pedestal Gasket
DO NOT CUT THE CABLE OR REMOVE THE CONNECTOR!
Step 3:
Secure the antenna to the mounting surface with the supplied retaining nut and lock washer
(see Figures 1 & 2). A small bead of RTV around the outer edge of the antenna base is recommended
to insure a watertight seal.
Skip to “Completing the installation” on page 5.
PEDESTAL MOUNTING
If you are attaching the antenna/pedestal assembly to a flat surface,
the cable with its connector
attached can be routed through a 9/16” hole drilled in the mounting surface, or passed through the
Mounting Flange.
Do not cut the cable and do not remove the connector.
If you are running the cable through the mounting surface:
Step 1:
Drill a 9/16” center hole for the antenna cable. When drilling fiberglass surfaces, use a small
backup block of scrap wood to control push-through splintering. Use caution to avoid drilling through
or near fuel lines, fuel tanks, hydraulic lines, or electrical wiring.
Step 2:
Step 3:
While holding the Pedestal Gasket to the surface, lift off the assembly and use the Pedestal
Gasket as a template to mark locations for the mounting screws.
Step 4:
The supplied mounting screws will accommodate most surfaces. If you find them too long,
too short, or otherwise unsuitable for your application, substitute wood screws, machine screws/
washers/nuts, or other hardware (not supplied). Be sure to use only stainless steel hardware. If you
find it too difficult to start the screws, drill 7/64” pilot holes.
Step 5:
Step 6a:
Attach the Pedestal Bottom and gasket to the surface, oriented according to the mark made
in step 2. Use the supplied self-tapping screws or other stainless steel hardware (not supplied). Do
not overtighten.
Step 7a:
Attach the rest of the antenna assembly to the mounted Pedestal Bottom.
Skip to “Completing the installation” on page 5.
If you are running the cable through the side of the Pedestal Bottom:
Follow Steps 2 through 5 above. Then:
Step 6b:
Use needle nose pliers to break off one of the three cable knockouts in the Pedestal Bottom,
as determined and marked in step 2 above. The choice of knockout must be determined in step 2.
(See illustration on page 2)
Step 7b:
Position the cable in the gasket’s knife-slit while fitting the gasket into position in the
Pedestal Bottom.
Step 8:
LOOSELY attach the Pedestal Bottom with Gasket to the surface, orienting it according to
the mark made in step 2. Use the supplied self-tapping screws or other stainless steel hardware (not
supplied). Do not overtighten.
FIGURE 1
Direct surface mounting for surfaces up to 1/4” thick
Direct surface mounting for surfaces 1/4” – 1” thick
FIGURE 2
SRA-50 antenna
Mounting surface
6” SRA-50
cable
Extension
Shaft
SRA-50 antenna
Retaining nut
Lock washer
Cable to receiver
Retaining nut
Lock washer
Cable to receiver
Mounting surface
6” SRA-50 cable
Knife-slit for
passage of cable
6” cable and TNC connector
Step 9:
Attach the rest of the antenna assembly to the mounted Pedestal Bottom.
Step 10:
Firm up the mounting screws, but do not over tighten.
Skip to “Completing the installation” on page 5.
Knockouts (3@120°)
(USE ONLY ONE)
Knife-slit for
passage of cable
4
3
2
Assemble the antenna along the provided mounting parts just as in the exploded view on
page 4. Orient the antenna as you prefer. Mark a pencil line on the flange and the mounting surface to
serve as an index in step 6b.
Unscrew the Pedestal Bottom from the rest of the antenna assembly and place the Pedestal
Gasket in the Pedestal Bottom.
When mounting to a flat surface using the pedestal or low-profile Antenna
Base options, orient the Pedestal/Antenna Base so that its cable exit faces the rear of the vessel or
vehicle, away from oncoming wind due to normal vessel or vehicle motion. Mount the SRA-50 so
that it does not interfere with safe operation of the vessel or vehicle.
