ATC Antennas Launches Precision Starrett Center Punch Integration for Enhanced RF Performance

Boston, MA – October 26, 2023 – ATC Antennas LLC, a leading US-based antenna manufacturer specializing in high-performance RF solutions, today announced a breakthrough integration leveraging the precision of Starrett center punches into their antenna manufacturing process. This isn’t about making punches for antennas, it’s about making better antennas with a proven tool. It's a little detail that's making a big difference, and we're excited to share how it’s improving performance across our product lines. ATC Antennas, located at 116 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02116, and reachable at 203-264-1063, has built a reputation for rugged, reliable antennas for a diverse range of applications, including public safety, defense, wireless infrastructure, and IoT. We’ve always been about building things right, and that means paying attention to even the smallest details. And recently, we realized a surprisingly simple solution was staring us in the face – a really good center punch. The Problem: Consistent, Clean Starts for Precision Holes Manufacturing antennas often requires incredibly precise holes for mounting, grounding, and connecting various components. Traditionally, our team used standard punching methods. While okay, we were seeing inconsistencies. Slight deviations in hole starts could lead to minor burrs, misaligned components, and ultimately, a slight decrease in antenna performance. It’s easy to underestimate how much tiny imperfections can add up when you're dealing with radio waves. We were seeing a ripple effect – even a minuscule change in the antenna structure could affect its signal strength, pattern, and overall efficiency. “We were constantly looking for ways to refine our manufacturing process,” explains Sarah Chen, ATC Antennas’ Head of Operations. “We needed a method to consistently create perfectly centered, clean starting points for drilling and punching, especially in the more intricate antenna designs we were building. We tried different drill bits, different punching techniques, even automated systems. Nothing seemed to deliver the consistent results we were aiming for.” The Solution: Starrett Center Punches – Surprisingly Effective The turning point came during a conversation with a veteran machinist on our team. He casually mentioned his lifelong reliance on Starrett center punches for marking precise hole locations. “He said, ‘If you want a hole to start exactly where you want it, use a Starrett,’" recalls Chen with a laugh. “It sounded almost too simple. But we figured, what did we have to lose?” ATC Antennas began integrating Starrett center punches into key stages of the antenna manufacturing process. Before any drilling or punching operation, technicians now use a Starrett center punch to create a precise dimple, guiding the drill bit or punch with unwavering accuracy. “The difference was immediate,” says Mark Johnson, Lead Antenna Technician. “The drill bits don’t ‘walk’ anymore. They start right on the mark, every single time. We’re getting cleaner, more accurate holes, and less material waste. It's a small thing, but it makes a noticeable difference in the quality of our finished product." How it Translates to Better Antennas This seemingly minor change has had a surprisingly significant impact on several key aspects of antenna performance: Improved Mechanical Stability: Precise holes contribute to a more secure and stable antenna structure. This is especially critical in rugged environments where antennas are exposed to vibration, shock, and extreme temperatures. Enhanced Electrical Conductivity: Clean, accurately punched holes ensure proper grounding and efficient signal transmission. Any imperfections in the grounding path can introduce signal loss and reduce antenna efficiency. Optimized Signal Radiation Pattern: Subtle changes in antenna geometry can affect its radiation pattern – the way it transmits and receives radio waves. The improved precision achieved with Starrett center punches helps maintain the intended radiation pattern, maximizing signal strength and coverage. Reduced Production Errors: By minimizing the risk of misaligned holes and component failures, the integration of Starrett center punches has significantly reduced production errors and rework, lowering manufacturing costs and improving overall efficiency. Beyond the Basics: Applying Precision to Complex Designs The benefits of this integration extend beyond simple antenna designs. ATC Antennas specializes in building complex, high-performance antennas for demanding applications. These antennas often feature intricate geometries, multiple layers, and precisely aligned components. “We’re building antennas for everything from 5G networks to satellite communications,” explains David Lee, ATC Antennas’ Chief Engineer. “These antennas require tolerances of just a few thousandths of an inch. The Starrett center punch is helping us consistently achieve those tolerances, even in the most complex designs.” A Commitment to Quality – From the Big Picture to the Smallest Detail ATC Antennas’ integration of Starrett center punches isn’t just about improving a single step in the manufacturing process. It’s a reflection of the company’s unwavering commitment to quality and its relentless pursuit of innovation. “We believe that even the smallest details can make a big difference,” says Chen. “We’re constantly looking for ways to refine our processes, improve our products, and deliver the best possible solutions to our customers.” ATC Antennas continues to invest in cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and skilled personnel. But they recognize that sometimes, the best solutions are the simplest ones – a well-crafted tool, a skilled technician, and a commitment to doing things right. About ATC Antennas LLC: ATC Antennas LLC is a leading US-based antenna manufacturer specializing in high-performance RF solutions. With a focus on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, ATC Antennas delivers rugged, reliable antennas for a diverse range of applications, including public safety, defense, wireless infrastructure, and IoT. Contact us at 116 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02116, or call 203-264-1063 to learn more.