Connect an external antenna to VTAP50‑OEM

1. Snap off the VTAP50‑OEM on‑board antenna. We recommend that you break the snap off points by applying pressure with a screwdriver, when the PCB is lying on a flat surface. (Note: This action is not reversible.)

   

   Points on VTAP50 to snap off the on-board antenna.

2. Connect the external antenna to the VTAP reader using the optional J2 expansion header via a matching or tuning circuit. The pins 1 and 2 on this expansion header are used for external antenna connection.

   You can select one of the off‑the‑shelf external antennas from Tune or match antennas) which have been tested with VTAP50 readers, and can be readily used with the tuning components and cable lengths listed. If these tested options do not suit, then please contact us so we can support you with your application.

   

   Expansion header to connect external antenna

   If the J2 expansion header is not already fitted, you can solder a 12‑way 2mm pitch DIL header (10075024‑G01‑06ULF Amphenol CC) in place.

   Note: This user modification on a VTAP50‑OEM is recommended for proof‑of‑concept only. For large quantities, or production, we recommend you buy the VTAP50‑MOD variant, which has the J2 header in place and the on‑board antenna removed as standard.