Saab DGNSS Antenna A31 (30 Db , TNC-F), Excl. Cable (7000 000-780)

Saab DGNSS Antenna A31 (30 Db , TNC-F), Excl. Cable (7000 000-780)

In Saab’s R6 NAV family, the A31 is referenced as a combined GNSS / beacon antenna option for DGNSS configurations—meaning it is intended to support both satellite navigation reception and the medium-frequency (MF) beacon channel used for DGNSS correction data in IALA beacon networks.

Design and Features

Combined GNSS + Beacon Antenna Concept

Many maritime DGNSS installations use a GNSS receiver plus a beacon receiver that listens to shore-based differential reference stations. In Saab’s terminology, the A31 is listed as a “Combined GNSS / Beacon” antenna, aligning it with DGNSS installations where both signal paths are required for the navigation sensor’s operating modes.

Active Antenna With 30 dB Gain

Retail and distributor listings consistently describe the A31 as a 30 dB antenna. In marine navigation contexts, this is typically associated with an active (amplified) antenna design that improves signal margin between an exposed deck installation and the navigation sensor, especially when longer cable runs and onboard RF noise are considerations.

Marine-Grade Connector Standard (TNC-F)

The A31 is specified with a TNC-F connector. TNC connectors are widely used in marine RF installations because they are threaded, robust, and better suited to vibration and environmental exposure than push-fit coax connectors. The connector type also matters for correct cable selection and watertight deck routing.

“Excluding Cable” Packaging

The A31 is typically sold excluding the coax cable, allowing installers to match cable type, length, and routing method to the vessel (mast routing, gland selection, deck penetrations, lightning protection layout, and separation from high-power emitters).

Technology and Specifications

Part Number and Commercial Identifier

• Product name: Saab DGNSS Antenna A31

• Saab part number: 7000 000-780

• Gain (as listed): 30 dB

• Connector: TNC-F

• Cable: Not included (“Excl. Cable”)

Role in Type-Approved R6 NAV Configurations

A key factual point for ship operators is whether an antenna is recognized within a type-approved equipment configuration. A publicly posted Marine Equipment Directive (MED) Module B certificate for Saab’s R6 Navigation System lists “DGNSS Antenna A31 7000 000-780 (Combined GNSS / Beacon)” as one of the antennas in the approved component set.

This matters because many bridge navigation upgrades are executed under classification rules, flag requirements, or SOLAS-linked equipment expectations, where using the specified antenna options can simplify compliance documentation.

Relationship to Saab DGNSS Sensors and Correction Modes

Saab’s R6 NAV documentation and product materials describe DGNSS solutions as supporting correction sources such as IALA Beacon (and, in other variants, SBAS and additional correction services).
The A31’s “combined” designation indicates it is intended for DGNSS deployments that make use of beacon corrections rather than GNSS-only operation.

Applications and Use Cases

SOLAS-Relevant Navigation Installations (GNSS/DGNSS)

On vessels operating under SOLAS and related IMO performance expectations, reliable position input is central to ECDIS, radar overlay correlation, ARPA integration, track control, reporting, and safety management. In such installations, a DGNSS antenna like the A31 may be selected to match the navigation sensor’s approved configuration and operational needs.

Coastal and Port Approaches Using Beacon Corrections

Where beacon differential corrections are available, DGNSS can provide improved accuracy and integrity monitoring compared with uncorrected GNSS. The A31 is used in exactly these beacon-enabled navigation sensor configurations.

Retrofit Upgrades and Standardization Across Fleet

Fleet operators often standardize on a limited set of antenna models to simplify spares, installation drawings, and service procedures. Because A31 is explicitly listed among approved components for R6 NAV DGNSS systems, it is frequently chosen during retrofits and like-for-like replacements where documentation continuity is important.

Advantages / Benefits

Installation Compatibility in Saab R5/R6 DGNSS Ecosystems

The most practical advantage is straightforward: A31 is a recognized Saab antenna option for DGNSS system configurations, which reduces integration uncertainty in systems where sensor/antenna matching matters.

Active Gain for Real-World Cable Runs

A 30 dB active antenna can be beneficial on vessels with longer cable routing, mast installations, or high-noise environments, helping preserve signal quality at the receiver.

Robust, Service-Friendly RF Connector

The TNC-F interface supports reliable, threaded connections that are common in marine RF installations and easier to service predictably than consumer-grade connectors.

Flexible Cabling Choices

Because the antenna is sold excluding cable, installers can choose cable lengths and types that match vessel routing constraints and compliance practices (including drip loops, glands, and separation from other RF systems).

FAQ Section

What is the Saab DGNSS Antenna A31 (7000 000-780)?

The Saab DGNSS Antenna A31 is a 30 dB active combined GNSS/beacon antenna with a TNC-F connector, intended for Saab DGNSS navigation system configurations and sold without cable.

How does the Saab DGNSS Antenna A31 work?

It provides the antenna path used by a Saab DGNSS navigation sensor to receive GNSS satellite signals and (in combined configurations) the beacon channel used for differential correction data, supporting DGNSS operation where beacon corrections are used.

Why is the Saab DGNSS Antenna A31 important?

In regulated marine navigation installations, using the correct antenna model can be essential for system performance and documentation. The A31 is listed as a “Combined GNSS / Beacon” antenna within the approved component set for Saab’s R6 navigation system.

What are the benefits of the Saab DGNSS Antenna A31?

Key benefits include 30 dB active gain, a robust TNC-F marine connector, and clear alignment with Saab DGNSS system configurations where a combined GNSS/beacon antenna is specified.

Does the A31 come with the antenna cable?

Most product listings explicitly state “Excl. Cable,” meaning the antenna is supplied without the coax cable so the installer can select the appropriate length and routing.

Summary

The Saab DGNSS Antenna A31 (7000 000-780) is a 30 dB, TNC-F, cable-excluded antenna used in Saab DGNSS navigation configurations, referenced as a combined GNSS/beacon antenna option in the R6 NAV approved component set. For operators and installers, the A31 is primarily valued for its system compatibility, marine-appropriate connector standard, and suitability for beacon-enabled DGNSS deployments where installation flexibility and documentation alignment matter.