Sirio SD-1300 is a versatile and widely-used discone antenna designed for broadband applications, including reception and transmission across a vast range of frequencies, from 25 MHz to 1300 MHz. This makes it particularly useful for scanner, monitoring, and amateur radio use, offering omnidirectional reception across different bands such as CB (27 MHz), VHF airband, marine band, and various HAM bands.

Measures

Whip: 88 cm

Cone: 9 cm

Mast: 58 cm

Total height with mast:  155 cm

Weight: about 1.2 kg

Coaxial cable: not supplied

Price: €117

Key Specifications:

1. Frequency Range:

   • Reception: 25 MHz to 1300 MHz, covering frequencies used in airband, marine, AIS, TETRA, 4G LTE, and more.
   • Transmission: It operates within narrower bands for transmission, including 49.5-50.5 MHz, 120-180 MHz, and 415-465 MHz. This allows for effective use in amateur radio (HAM) operations.

2. Design:

   • Type: Discone antennas are designed for wide-band applications due to their unique cone-and-disc structure. The SD-1300 follows this structure, utilizing stainless steel, chromed brass, and nylon for enhanced durability. Its vertical whip is adjustable, and it can be removed when operating at certain frequencies, like 50 MHz.
   • Mounting: It supports mast mounting, with compatibility for masts of 25-54 mm in diameter. The antenna is 1600 mm (5.3 feet) in height and has a cone radial length of 810 mm, making it suitable for base station setups.

3. Performance:

   • The SD-1300 has a unity gain at lower frequencies and a maximum gain of 2.15 dBi. This is typical of discone antennas, which are optimized for broad frequency ranges rather than specific high-gain performance.
   • It is omnidirectional in the H-plane with 360° coverage, making it ideal for receiving signals from all directions without the need for repositioning.
   • The polarization is linear vertical, ensuring compatibility with most terrestrial transmission systems.
   • The maximum power handling is 300 watts for VHF and 200 watts for UHF, making it robust enough for most amateur and semi-professional applications.

4. Durability:

   • Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, the materials used are corrosion-resistant and include stainless steel and chromed brass. This ensures longevity and reliability in outdoor setups, even in windy or stormy conditions.

Applications:

• Amateur Radio (HAM): Popular among HAM radio operators due to its transmission capabilities in 2m, 70cm, and other amateur bands.
• Public Safety and Commercial Use: It’s used in various sectors such as marine communications, airband (aviation), and land mobile services like TETRA, making it a versatile tool for different radio systems.
• Cellular and Wireless: The SD-1300 is compatible with LTE-450, 4G LTE, ISM/SIGFOX/LoRa 433 MHz, and other modern wireless systems, making it a suitable option for long-range data communications and monitoring systems.

Installation and Adjustability:

The antenna comes with anodized aluminum brackets for mast mounting,

and its cone radials provide a solid structure for strong wind resistance. 

The base version can be fitted with either N-female or SO-239 connectors, 

which is useful in cable installation and connections. 

It's easy to install and maintain, with adjustments possible for the vertical whip to optimize performance on certain frequencies.

Reception and transmission

The manufacturer shall attach the following chart:

Good antenna with good gain peaks between 120 and 135 MHz

There is a low-throughput zone between 490 and 600 MHz

However, it all shows well in the measurements I made.  Based on this chart you can evaluate if the antenna will be useful in the frequencies you use.