Question on E30 antenna conversion using Z3 antenna base

[at2011]

Hi guys, long time lurker. I'm planning to convert my e30 powered antenna to a fixed z3 antenna and I just noticed in the link to the picture below (first picture) of a Z3 antenna base where its grounded to the body of the car with a white wire connector, presumably the positive.

Why does this antenna have this setup when it's not supposed to be powered like the old Hirschmann? What are the extra wires for?

Many thanks, Al

http://www.zroadster.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=8613

[superj]

if its to the body, it is for sure aground so it could be to dissipate static from the air moving over the antenna while driving?

[richardodn]

Here's my conjecture. The Z3 antenna likely has a built in RF amplifier and the white wire is the power wire. This serves the same purpose as the white wire connected to your E30 antenna. When powered, it turns on (raises) the antenna. The major difference between the two is the old E30, the turn on wire is only a signal. The high current to actually turn the motor is one of the other wires. (I can't remember the color.) In the Z3 the white wire supplies enough current to power it directly.

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Also, brown is the ground wire.

[jagerking]

Here's my conjecture. The Z3 antenna likely has a built in RF amplifier and the white wire is the power wire. This serves the same purpose as the white wire connected to your E30 antenna. When powered, it turns on (raises) the antenna. The major difference between the two is the old E30, the turn on wire is only a signal. The high current to actually turn the motor is one of the other wires. (I can't remember the color.) In the Z3 the white wire supplies enough current to power it directly.

- - - Updated - - -

Also, brown is the ground wire.

Red. The other wire color (that provides power to the antenna) is red.

The red wire is constantly hot; be sure you properly tape it off to ensure it doesn't find a place to short out over time.