BSN NAL 20 Meter Dual Mode Vehicle Antenna (ASE-DA20)

BSN NAL 20 Meter Dual Mode Vehicle Antenna (ASE-DA20)

In standard configurations, the ASE-DA20 includes two 20-meter (66 ft) low-loss coax runs and a combined Iridium/GPS dual-mode antenna, supporting professional installations that need consistent RF performance and straightforward cable routing.

Design and Features

Dual-mode antenna module (Iridium + GPS)

A defining feature of the ASE-DA20 is the integrated dual antenna module, which combines an Iridium L-band antenna element and a GPS antenna element into a single external housing. This reduces rooftop clutter and simplifies mounting compared with installing separate antennas for satellite voice/data and GPS positioning.

Vehicle-focused mounting and cable management

The kit is intended for vehicle and vessel-style mounting, using a bracket/fixture that secures the antenna to a roof, rail, or other rigid surface. In typical dealer descriptions, the kit is presented as a practical “fixed mount” solution with the antenna module plus mounting hardware and two RF cables, enabling clean routing to the docking station or terminal.

Long-run cabling for real-world installs

The 20 m / 66 ft cable length is aimed at common installation distances in trucks, SUVs, service vehicles, light marine craft, and small fixed sites—where the antenna must be mounted externally and the equipment may be installed deeper inside the vehicle or cabin. In the BSN resiliency catalog, the ASE-DA20 is explicitly listed as “66 ft (20 m) 2 × LMR600 cable, Dual (Irid/GPS) antenna.”

Technology and Specifications

Cable type and RF characteristics

For the ASE-DA20, published kit specifications commonly reference 2 × LMR-600 coaxial cables at 20 m (66 ft). LMR-600 is widely used as a low-loss 50-ohm RF cable in antenna feeder and wireless applications where attenuation and durability matter.

Included components (typical kit content)

Across distributor listings, the ASE-DA20 is generally described as including:

• Integrated dual Iridium/GPS antenna module

• Mounting fixture / bracket

• Two 20-meter LMR600 cables (one for Iridium, one for GPS)

(Some storefront pages may simplify the “what’s included” section, but the above component set is consistently described in accessory catalogs and dealer product summaries.)

Trade classification and shipping data (commonly published)

The BSN resiliency catalog lists standardized trade and logistics fields for ASE-DA20, including:

• Harmonized Code (HTS): 8517.70.0000

• ECCN: EAR99

• Shipping dimensions: 20 × 16 × 14 in (51 × 41 × 36 cm)

• Shipping weight: 20 lb (9 kg)

Applications and Use Cases

Iridium docking stations in vehicles (fleet, utility, emergency response)

A core use case is pairing the ASE-DA20 with Iridium docking stations (including vehicle and fixed mounts) where crews require dependable satellite voice/data coverage beyond terrestrial networks. The external antenna placement improves sky visibility compared with relying on an internal handset antenna inside a vehicle.

Maritime and small-craft installations

On vessels, the dual-mode design supports mounting the antenna in an elevated, unobstructed location while routing cables to a protected interior electronics area. GPS integration is often useful for systems that associate location with communications events, logging, or tracking workflows.

Remote site and semi-permanent deployments

Although labeled as a “vehicle antenna,” the ASE-DA20 format also fits semi-permanent remote site deployments (temporary command posts, mobile offices, field shelters) where a 20 m cable run is sufficient and the installation benefits from combined Iridium + GPS in one module.

Mixed RF environments

Many installations—especially in fleets—operate near VHF/UHF radios, LTE routers, GNSS receivers, and other emitters. The kit’s use of low-loss cabling and integrated module is intended to preserve signal integrity and reduce installation variability compared with ad-hoc antenna/cable combinations.

Advantages / Benefits

One module for satellite + GPS

By integrating Iridium and GPS into a single external unit, the ASE-DA20 reduces antenna count, simplifies roof layout, and can shorten installation time—especially in fleet rollouts with repeatable mounting positions.

20 m cabling supports flexible equipment placement

The 66 ft / 20 m reach helps installers place docking electronics where it makes operational sense (dashboard, center console, secure equipment bay, cabin cabinet) while still mounting the antenna in the best RF location.

Low-loss coax supports stable RF performance

LMR-600 is designed for antenna feeder runs and other RF applications requiring manageable routing and reduced attenuation versus thinner cable types at comparable lengths.

Standardized logistics and export classification

For procurement teams, the presence of published HTS and ECCN fields and consistent shipping pack-out information can simplify compliance paperwork and freight planning.

Comparisons (if relevant)

ASE-DA20 vs shorter dual-mode kits (e.g., 12 m variants)

Within dual-mode antenna families, the primary differentiator is typically cable length (and sometimes cable type). Shorter kits (often around 12 m) can be suitable when the docking station is close to the antenna mount, while the 20 m variant is used when routing constraints require extra reach.

ASE-DA20 vs longer / active-kit variants (40 m, 70 m classes)

Some catalogs distinguish between passive dual-mode kits (often used up to certain practical run lengths) and active antenna kits for longer or more demanding installations. Listings that group multiple lengths commonly indicate different cable types and, for longer runs, active antenna approaches.

Integrated dual-mode module vs separate antennas

Separate antennas can offer placement flexibility (e.g., placing GPS and Iridium in different spots), but they increase hardware count and install complexity. The ASE-DA20’s integrated approach prioritizes simplified deployment and repeatable outcomes.

FAQ Section 

What is the BSN NAL 20 Meter Dual Mode Vehicle Antenna (ASE-DA20)?

The ASE-DA20 is a dual Iridium/GPS external antenna kit that includes an integrated antenna module plus two 20 m (66 ft) LMR600 cables and mounting hardware for vehicle or fixed installations.

How does the ASE-DA20 work?

The antenna mounts outside (vehicle roof, mast, or structure) to improve sky visibility. Two coax cables connect the module to the Iridium docking station and the GPS input, carrying RF signals between the indoor equipment and the external antenna elements.

Why is the ASE-DA20 important?

It helps deliver more reliable Iridium satellite operation from inside vehicles or enclosed spaces by relocating the antenna outdoors, while also providing GPS reception in the same mounting footprint—useful for fleet and field deployments.

What are the benefits of the ASE-DA20?

Common benefits include combined Iridium + GPS in one module, 20 m cable reach, low-loss LMR600 cabling, and simplified mounting for standardized fleet installations.

Summary

The BSN NAL ASE-DA20 is a professional 20-meter dual-mode Iridium/GPS vehicle antenna kit built around an integrated external antenna module and 2 × 20 m LMR600 cable runs. By enabling optimal antenna placement outside the vehicle or structure while keeping the Iridium docking electronics protected inside, it supports repeatable, fleet-friendly installations across remote operations, maritime use, and mobile field communications—while also standardizing logistics and compliance attributes such as HTS 8517.70.0000 and EAR99 classification.