Shakespeare Multiband Antenna Review: Specs & Installation

JellyFish JF-3 Galaxy Multiband Waterproof Antenna

JellyFish JF-3 Galaxy multiband waterproof antenna

The JellyFish JF-3 Galaxy is a compact, multiband, IP67-rated antenna designed to combine GPS, cellular (2G, 3G and 4G) and Wi‑Fi reception into a single, durable package. Built with marine and mobile applications in mind, this antenna delivers broad coverage in a small footprint, making it a practical choice for boats, RVs, work vehicles and other installations where space and reliability matter.

Compact, Versatile Design

Small enough to fit into most installation locations, the JF-3 Galaxy mounts flush on flat, horizontal surfaces for a neat, low-profile appearance. Its compact housing helps preserve the aesthetics of the vessel or vehicle while providing the multi-network reception modern navigation and communication systems require.

Waterproof and Durable

Rated IP67, the antenna is protected against dust and can withstand temporary immersion in water, offering peace of mind in marine or harsh-weather environments. This level of ingress protection supports long-term outdoor use where splash, rain and occasional wet conditions are expected.

Independent Ground Plane for Reliable Performance

Unlike some rooftop antennas that depend on a vehicle’s metallic roof as a ground plane, the JF-3 Galaxy includes its own ground plane. That design enables consistent performance on a variety of mounting surfaces, including metal, plastic and fiberglass, without a significant change in antenna behavior. The built-in ground plane simplifies installation and makes the antenna suitable for nonmetallic deck surfaces frequently found on boats and recreational vehicles.

Integrated Multiband Reception

Combining GPS, cellular and Wi‑Fi reception reduces the need for multiple individual antennas and decreases the number of penetrations through a deck or roof. For users who rely on onboard navigation, remote connectivity and onboard Wi‑Fi, this consolidated approach saves space and minimizes installation complexity while supporting multiple radio services from a single location.

Installation and Use

The antenna is designed for straightforward, flush mounting on flat horizontal surfaces. Because it incorporates its own ground plane and is engineered to perform well on different materials, installers can often position it in the most convenient place rather than being constrained to specific metallic mounting points. This flexibility eases placement for optimal reception of GPS satellites, cellular towers and Wi‑Fi access points.

Who Should Consider the JF-3 Galaxy?

Owners of small to medium boats, RV owners, fleet operators and anyone who needs reliable, combined reception for navigation, cellular data and local wireless networks will find the JF-3 Galaxy appealing. Its compact size and all-in-one functionality make it particularly attractive where mounting space is limited or where a clean, unobtrusive installation is desired.

Manufacturer and Availability

The JellyFish JF-3 Galaxy is available from Shakespeare Marine. At the time of publication, the antenna was listed at $288.95. For product availability and additional details, contact Shakespeare Marine in Columbia, South Carolina: (803) 227-1590. shakespeare-ce.com

This article originally appeared in the March 2016 issue.