Abstract: A preferred compact antenna assembly of the invention includes a nonconductive hollow core plug. The core plug has a recessed pattern on an outside surface into which a helical radiator is wound. An end portion of the helical radiator extends through a hole in the core plug to contact a center radiator extending in the hollow portion. A cover covers the helical radiator. Preferably, the entire assembly is configured to snap-fit together and to a device. The cover and core plug may snap-fit together. The bottom of the core plug may define a mount and the center radiator may be exposed from the mount as a device contact. The center radiator is also preferably shaped to grab onto the helical radiator. The recess pattern and hole on the core plug allow formation of the helical radiator having the exact pitch defined by the recess pattern by inserting a wire into the hole and applying pressure to the wire while rotating the core plug and wire vis a vis each other to wind the wire into the recess pattern.

Abstract: An antenna structure incorporating a unitary radiator including a compression housing. The compression housing snap fits to a ferrule to compress the unitary radiator to ensure electrical contact between the unitary radiator and an electrical contact, such as the ferrule. Upon assembly, the compression housing is snap fit to the ferrule to compress the radiator. Preferably, to accommodate snap fit construction, an end of the ferrule includes at least one detent that corresponds to at least one projection on the compression housing. Another end of the ferrule preferably includes at least one projection that corresponds to at least one detent on the portable communicator to achieve a snap fit between the ferrule and the portable communicator. To accommodate two bands, the unitary radiator preferably has a generally helical shape formed by an outer portion thereof and a center portion disposed within the outer portion.