
( Brand: Empire Devices Product Corp ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: LP-105 ), ( Compatible Brand: Universal ), ( Type: Loop Antenna ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )
The **Empire Devices LP-105 12-Loop Antenna** is a high-performance, compact, and versatile directional antenna designed for demanding RF applications where precision, gain, and reliability are paramount. Engineered with a **12-loop helical design**, this antenna delivers exceptional directional gain and selectivity, making it an ideal choice for signal amplification, interference rejection, and long-range communication in environments where traditional dipole or omnidirectional antennas fall short. The **BNC female connector** ensures a secure, low-loss connection to your RF equipment, minimizing signal degradation while supporting frequencies ranging from **10 MHz to 100 MHz**, catering to a wide array of amateur radio, military, aviation, and commercial applications. Its **low-profile, rugged construction** is built to withstand harsh conditions, whether deployed in portable setups, fixed installations, or mobile environments, ensuring durability without sacrificing performance. The helical winding of the loops creates a **narrow beamwidth**, allowing for precise signal targeting while effectively suppressing unwanted noise and interference from off-axis sources. This makes the LP-105 particularly useful in environments with high electromagnetic clutter, such as urban areas, near power lines, or in close proximity to other RF sources. Additionally, its **compact footprint** measuring just **10.5 inches in diameter** makes it space-efficient, ideal for installations where real estate is limited, such as rooftops, vehicles, or confined indoor setups. Whether used for **HF amateur radio operations, military communications, aviation navigation, or spectrum analysis**, the LP-105 excels in delivering **consistent, high-fidelity signals** with minimal loss, making it a trusted tool for professionals and enthusiasts alike who demand the best in RF performance.
### **Pros and Cons of the Empire Devices LP-105 (12-Loop Antenna, BNC Female)**
#### **Pros:**1. **Wide Frequency Range** The LP-105 is designed for a broad spectrum, covering **10 kHz to 30 MHz**, making it suitable for shortwave listening (SWL), amateur radio (HF bands), and emergency communications. This versatility allows it to capture signals from multiple bands without needing multiple antennas.
2. **Compact and Portable Design** The 12-loop design is relatively small compared to larger antennas, making it easier to deploy in tight spaces, vehicles, or temporary setups. It can be mounted on a pole, roof, or even handheld with proper support.
3. **Good Gain and Efficiency** The loop antenna design provides moderate gain, especially in the lower HF bands (3 10 MHz), where vertical polarization is common. It can outperform a simple dipole or random wire in certain conditions, particularly for weak signals.
4. **BNC Female Connector** The BNC output is standard in amateur radio and SWL setups, making it easy to connect to receivers, transceivers, or SDRs (Software-Defined Radios) without additional adapters.
5. **Durability and Weather Resistance** Empire Devices products are generally built to withstand outdoor conditions, including UV exposure and light moisture, though proper sealing (e.g., waterproofing the BNC connection) is recommended for long-term use.
6. **Low Cost Relative to Performance** Compared to more complex antennas (e.g., full-wave loops, Yagis), the LP-105 offers a balance of performance and affordability, making it accessible for hobbyists and budget-conscious operators.
7. **Easy Installation** Requires minimal setup just mount it at a reasonable height (ideally 10 30 feet above ground) and connect it to your radio. No tuning or complex adjustments are typically needed for basic use.
8. **Good for Weak-Signal Propagation** The loop s directional sensitivity can help in identifying weak signals, especially when rotated to match the signal s polarization (vertical or horizontal).
9. **Compatibility with SDRs** Works seamlessly with SDR receivers (e.g., RTL-SDR, SDRplay, AirSpy) for digital modes (FT8, JT65), CW, and analog broadcasting, expanding its utility beyond traditional radio operation.
10. **No Grounding Required** Unlike vertical antennas, the LP-105 does not need a ground rod or radial system, simplifying installation in areas where soil conductivity is poor.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Limited Band Coverage Without Tuning** While the LP-105 covers **10 kHz 30 MHz**, it is not a true "all-band" antenna. For optimal performance on the higher HF bands (e.g., 20 30 MHz), you may need to adjust the loop s length or use a matching network, which isn t always practical for portable use.
2. **Directional Sensitivity** The antenna is **directional**, meaning it picks up signals best when aligned with the transmitter s polarization. This requires manual rotation to find signals, which can be inconvenient for weak or intermittent contacts. A non-directional antenna (e.g., a dipole) may be easier for beginners.
3. **Lower Gain Than Yagi or Dipole on Higher Bands** On the **10-meter band (28 30 MHz)**, the LP-105 may not outperform a properly tuned dipole or Yagi antenna, which can provide higher gain and better signal-to-noise ratio.
4. **Potential for Wind Loading** The loops, while compact, can still be affected by wind, especially if mounted high or in exposed locations. Secure mounting is essential to prevent damage.
5. **BNC Connection Vulnerability** The BNC port is not inherently weatherproof. Over time, moisture or corrosion can degrade the connection, leading to signal loss. A proper waterproofing solution (e.g., heat shrink, silicone sealant) is recommended for outdoor use.
6. **Not Ideal for VHF/UHF** The LP-105 is not designed for **VHF (50 150 MHz) or UHF (400 MHz )**, limiting its use for FM broadcasting, aviation, or satellite communications.
7. **Requires Proper Height for Best Performance** While portable, the antenna performs best when elevated **10 30 feet above ground**. In urban or heavily wooded areas, this may not be feasible, reducing its effectiveness.
8. **No Built-in Tuner** Unlike some multi-band antennas, the LP-105 lacks an automatic tuner. Users must manually adjust their radio s antenna tuner (if used) or ensure impedance matching for optimal performance.
9. **Signal Strength Dependent on Orientation** Unlike omnidirectional antennas, the LP-105 s reception varies with rotation. This can be frustrating for operators who prefer plug-and-play simplicity.
10. **Limited Use for Transmitting (If Applicable)** While the LP-105 is primarily designed for receiving, if used for transmitting (e.g., in amateur radio), it may not handle high power efficiently without additional matching components.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Empire Devices LP-105** is a **versatile, budget-friendly, and portable** antenna that excels in **shortwave listening, weak-signal reception, and emergency communications**. Its **12-loop design** provides a good balance between portability and performance, making it ideal for **travelers, SWL enthusiasts, and amateur radio operators** who need a compact solution for **10 kHz 30 MHz**.
However, it is **not a one-size-fits-all antenna**. Its **directional nature, limited VHF/UHF coverage, and need for proper height/orientation** may require additional effort compared to simpler antennas. It is **best suited for receiving applications** rather than high-power transmitting, and users should invest in **proper mounting and weatherproofing** for long-term reliability.
For **beginners or casual users**, the LP-105 is a **great starting point** due to its ease of use and broad frequency range. For **serious HF operators** who need **high gain on all bands**, a **dipole, Yagi, or multi-band loop** might be preferable. Similarly, those in **urban or low-space environments** may find it less effective without elevation.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the LP-105 if:**- You need a **portable, all-band (10 kHz 30 MHz) antenna** for **SWL, emergency radio, or amateur radio**.
- You prioritize **ease of setup and low cost** over maximum gain.
- You plan to use it for **receiving only** (not high-power transmitting).
- You can **elevate it properly** (10 feet) and **rotate it** to optimize signal reception.
- You re comfortable with **manual tuning** of your radio s antenna tuner if needed.
**Consider alternatives if:**- You need **VHF/UHF coverage** (e.g., FM, aviation, satellite).
- You require **high gain on specific bands** (e.g., 20m, 10m) and are willing to invest in a **Yagi or dipole**.
- You operate in a **highly restricted space** (e.g., apartment) where elevation is difficult.
- You plan to **transmit high power** and need an antenna with better efficiency.
**Final Verdict:** The **LP-105 is an excellent choice for hobbyists and travelers** who want a **simple, effective, and portable** antenna for **shortwave and HF bands**. With proper use and minor adjustments (e.g., elevation, rotation), it delivers **solid performance** for its price. However, those with more demanding needs should explore other options.
You are purchasing 1 Used, Vintage Empire Devices LP-105 - 12 Loop Antenna, BNC Female. Used for testing and calibration of equipment.