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The Antenna Lab | The Ham's Corner | Advanced RF Edge

Tag - directional

Articles covering directional antenna models and their applications.

Articles

High-Gain Biquad Antenna with Planar Reflector: Analysis and Applications for the 866.5 MHz ISM Band
Discover the design and performance characteristics of a high-gain Biquad antenna with a planar reflector for the 866.5 MHz ISM band. This AN-SOF analysis details the antenna's 10.5 dBi gain, 10% impedance bandwidth, and exceptional beam symmetry, providing a professional-grade directional solution for LoRaWAN, UHF RFID, and long-range telemetry applications.
Rectangular Microstrip Patch Antennas: A Comparative Analysis of Transmission Line Theory and AN-SOF Numerical Results
This comprehensive study explores the design and electromagnetic behavior of the rectangular microstrip patch antenna, contrasting classical transmission line theory with AN-SOF numerical simulations. By evaluating resonance, input impedance, and the impact of finite vs. infinite substrates, the article details the specific areas where analytical formulas align with full-wave results and where complex phenomena like surface waves and mutual conductance necessitate advanced computational validation.
Exploring an HF Log-Periodic Sawtooth Array: Insights from Geometry to Simulation
This article explores the design and analysis of log-periodic sawtooth arrays (LPSA) for HF communications. It covers their geometric principles, frequency-independent characteristics, and demonstrates how AN-SOF simulation software models these antennas, providing valuable insights into their performance and behavior.
Evaluating EMF Compliance - Part 2: Using Near-Field Calculations to Determine Exclusion Zones
In this article, we dive deep into near-field calculations to establish RF exclusion zones. By understanding near-field and far-field regions, occupational vs. public exposure, health impacts, and practical methods, we ensure compliance with EMF guidelines and safeguard human health.
DIY Helix High Gain Directional Antenna: From Simulation to 3D Printing
We are happy to share an interesting project by one of our AN-SOF users: @PoweredMeshtasticEurope. He demonstrates how to build your own helix high gain directional antenna for the Meshtastic frequency range, from theory to reality.
Extended Double Zepp (EDZ): A Phased Array Solution for Directional Antenna Applications
The Extended Double Zepp (EDZ) antenna offers higher gain than a half-wave dipole, but matching to 50-Ohm coax is difficult. This article explores a phased array design using two EDZs for directional radio transmission, achieving good gain and easier impedance matching.
Evaluating EMF Compliance - Part 1: A Guide to Far-Field RF Exposure Assessments
In today's wireless world, ensuring Electromagnetic Field (EMF) compliance is crucial for protecting individuals from potential harmful effects of RF exposure. Join us as we explore the influence of antenna configurations, ground planes, and feed lines on far-field EIRP values, ensuring you possess the tools to navigate the complexities of EMF compliance effectively.
Transmission Line Feeding in Antenna Design: Exploring the Four-Square Array
Explore the Four-Square Array: a phased array using six transmission lines in its feeding system. Perfect for directional control, it combines simplicity and performance for RF engineers, ham operators, and antenna designers.
Front-to-Rear and Front-to-Back Ratios: Applying Key Antenna Directivity Metrics
Understand the difference between Front-to-Rear (F/R) and Front-to-Back (F/B) ratios, key metrics for antenna directivity. Learn how to calculate and interpret these values using AN-SOF software. Improve your antenna designs with this essential knowledge.
The Loop on Ground (LoG) Antenna: A Compact Solution for Directional Reception
The Loop on Ground (LoG) antenna offers a compact solution for directional reception with a cardioid radiation pattern. This article explores its design and highlights the efficiency achieved through the Conformal Method of Moments (CMoM).
Efficient NOAA Satellite Signal Reception with the Quadrifilar Helix Antenna
The Quadrifilar Helix antenna (QFH or QHA), with its unique design and circular polarization, ensures efficient NOAA satellite signal reception. This article explores the history, key characteristics, and practical modeling of QFH antennas using AN-SOF, providing valuable insights for RF engineers and enthusiasts.
Validating V Antennas: Directivity Analysis with AN-SOF
This article validates AN-SOF's results against established formulas for V antennas, highlighting its advanced modeling capabilities. We explore optimal angles, directivity enhancements, and precise calculations, making AN-SOF a powerful tool for RF engineers, ham radio enthusiasts, and antenna designers.
Enhancing VHF Performance: The Dual Reflector Moxon Antenna for 145 MHz
Discover the Dual Reflector Moxon Antenna at 145 MHz (2m band): Amplified Gain and Enhanced Performance for VHF Enthusiasts.
Building a Compact High-Performance UHF Array with AN-SOF: A 4-Element Biquad Design
Need a compact directional antenna for your UHF needs? This 4-element Biquad antenna, designed with AN-SOF, packs a powerful punch in a relatively small space. Perfect for UHF applications where space is at a premium!
Validating AN-SOF Simulations for Gain and VSWR of Helix Antennas in Axial Mode
AN-SOF simulations of axial-mode helical antennas closely match John D. Kraus’s classic measurements for gain and VSWR, confirming its accuracy. Using the Conformal Method of Moments, AN-SOF models true helix curvature, delivering reliable predictions for high-gain circularly polarized designs.
Building a Beam: Modeling a 5-Element 2m Band Quad Array
Want a directional antenna for the 2m band? This article explores modeling a 5-element quad array in AN-SOF, achieving good gain and front-to-back ratio.
Design and Analysis of a Parabolic Cylinder Reflector with a Back-Firing Primary Radiator
Explore the design of a self-resonant parabolic cylinder reflector antenna operating at 890-965 MHz. This study analyzes a back-firing dipole-reflector feed system modeled in AN-SOF, demonstrating how to achieve a stable 50-Ohm match and an asymmetric fan-beam pattern (55° Horizontal, 25° Vertical) without complex matching networks.
Design and Simulation of a Compact Self-Resonant Pyramidal Horn Antenna for 2.4 GHz WiFi
Explore a compact, self-resonant pyramidal horn antenna designed for the 2.4 GHz WiFi band. This study challenges traditional aperture theory by demonstrating how an electrically small horn, with an axial length of just half a wavelength, can achieve a high gain of 13 dBi. Through AN-SOF wire-grid simulation, we detail the waveguide feed optimization and flare-angle geometry required to bridge the gap between idealized textbook formulas and practical, high-performance DIY antenna construction.
Explicit Modeling of a 9-Element LPDA: Capturing Real-World Wideband Performance
Explore the precision of explicit boom modeling in this 9-element LPDA study. Using AN-SOF, we analyze a 200-800 MHz log-periodic array, demonstrating how the 'active region' shifts with frequency to maintain stable gain and VSWR. Learn why modeling feed lines as physical wires provides a superior analysis of wideband antenna performance.
Boosting Performance with Dual V Antennas: A Practical Design and Simulation
Learn how stacking two V antennas can boost directivity. This article presents a practical Dual V Antenna design and explains how to scale it for any frequency. Includes simulation insights and a link to an online calculator.
Simulating Helical Antennas over Finite Wire-Grid Ground Planes
Learn how to simulate axial-mode helical antennas using AN-SOF. This study analyzes LHCP gain, impedance, and axial ratio over a finite wire-grid ground plane from 75 to 95 MHz.
Introduction to Yagi-Uda Arrays: Analyzing a 5-Element Beam with a Folded Dipole Driver
Learn the fundamentals of Yagi-Uda arrays with this introductory model. This simulation features a folded dipole driver with arced ends, illustrating how parasitic elements shape a highly directional 9.7 dBi beam and achieve a 15 dB Front-to-Back ratio. This baseline design provides the perfect foundation for mastering antenna feeding, tuning, and optimization using AN-SOF.
Step-by-Step: Modeling Basic Yagi-Uda Arrays for Beginners
Master Yagi-Uda simulation in AN-SOF! This quick guide walks you through modeling a 3-element array (reflector, driven element, director). Analyze radiation patterns with professional results.
A Closer Look at the HF Skeleton Slot Antenna
Explore the intricacies of the HF Skeleton Slot Antenna - a bi-directional marvel offering versatile HF communication.
The 17m Band 2-Element Delta Loop Beam: A Compact, High-Gain Antenna for DX Enthusiasts
Conquer the 17-meter band with the 2-element Delta Loop Beam antenna. This compact, high-gain design boasts near-perfect impedance matching, making it perfect for DX enthusiasts. Download the AN-SOF model and unlock its potential!
The Moxon-Yagi Dual-Band VHF/UHF Antenna for Superior Satellite Link Performance
Elevate your satellite connections with the Moxon-Yagi Dual-Band VHF/UHF Antenna. This innovative design optimizes signal reception for seamless communication.
Automating 2-Element Quad Array Design: Scripting and Bulk Processing in AN-SOF
Struggling to design optimal 2-element quad arrays? This article explores automating the process using Scilab scripts and AN-SOF's bulk processing. Generate & simulate multiple configurations with varying element spacing, saving time and uncovering potential performance improvements!
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