VAS Super Cannon Helical 5.8GHz - 213mm RHCP SMA

VAS Super Cannon Helical is a directional antenna with right-hand circular polarization RHCP, an SMA connector, and a gain of 15.5 dBiC for the 5600-5980 MHz band. It is intended for the receiving side — a ground station, antenna tracker, or diversity receiver. It is the most powerful model in the VAS helical line. The frequency range covers all common 5.8 GHz channels.

The helical antenna has an emitter wound into a helix above a metal reflector. There is air between the turns, which as a dielectric has lower losses than fiberglass in flat patch antennas – helical therefore achieves higher efficiency at comparable dimensions. Gain is determined by the number of turns; this model has sixteen. In the VAS lineup, it sits above the three-turn model with 7.5 dBiC gain, the five-turn 9.5 dBiC, and the ten-turn Black Cannon with 12.5 dBiC.

The radiation beam is 40°, significantly narrower than the weaker helical models in the range. The antenna therefore must be kept pointed at the model and is not suitable for FPV goggles. We do not recommend it as the receiver's only antenna. The manufacturer recommends using it with an antenna tracker, or on a diversity receiver, where two or more of these antennas are spaced about 10-15° apart — this widens the covered area while keeping the range unchanged. A suitable companion is an omnidirectional antenna, such as the VAS Ion Pro or Victory (sold separately), which covers takeoffs, landings, and the nearby area.

Circular polarization suppresses reflections („multipath“) and signals with opposite polarization, so the image remains clean even in built-up areas and among obstacles. High gain also helps penetrate through trees and buildings where an omnidirectional antenna already loses the signal.

The antenna connects via a semi-rigid coaxial cable. The cable holds its shape on its own and can be bent up to 90° in both directions, so the antenna needs no additional support and is aimed by rotating the cable. A dedicated mount or tripod adapter is not included. The antenna weighs 39.4 g and measures 195 mm.

Video Aerial Systems (VAS) is an American company focused on antenna development and production. It was founded in 2011 by Alex Greve, known in the FPV community as IBCrazy. It holds several of its own patents and their antennas rank among the very best. The Super Cannon is made in the USA and complies with NDAA.