Antennas/Antenna Arrays

Objectives
• Explain how the elementary dipole antenna
transmits electromagnetic waves.
• Calculate optimum antenna height for a given
frequency both grounded and ungrounded.
• Identify the two types of antenna polarization.
• Interpret the beam power distribution pattern
for a single dipole antenna and a linear
antenna array (broadside and end fire) and
identify sidelobes.
• Describe how quasi-optical systems increase
antenna directivity.
 Maxwell’s Theory
• A time varying electric field (E) (from an
alternating source - oscillator) will generate a
time-varying magnetic field (B).
• A magnetic field will generate an electric
field.
• So, an E-field will produce a B-field that
produces an E-field that produces ….
• The E-field / B-field interaction produces a
propagating electromagnetic wave
perpendicular to E & B fields.
• There exists a continuous transfer of energy
between fields.
 Generation of Electromagnetic Radiation
• E difference along conducting dipole produces electrical field
• Field lines represent field strengths of same magnitude
• Outer lines further apart due to repulsion of like poles
• Field lines collapse when voltage difference between ends decreases
• Delay in reaction and repulsion causes outer field to separate before
collapsing
•Electric field reversed, opposite field lines produced. Since field lines
are in same direction, looped field pushed away at speed of light
Formation of Electric and Magnetic Fields

Conducting Dipole Antenna

 Electromagnetic Field Orientation
• Vertically Polarized Antenna
• Electric Field determines Polarization
 Elementary Dipole Antenna
• Simplest form of Antenna
• Optimum Length is l/2
• If mounted into ground (vertical), length reduced to l/4
• Reflection off of ground gives it virtual l/2 length
 Polarization & Antenna Orientation
• Linear Polarization (horizontal or vertical)
• Circular Polarization (for 3D maneuvering)
• Antenna Polarized in direction of Electric
Field
– Transmit and receive antennas should have same
polarization in order to receive optimum energy
Vertically polarized lens When Horizontally polarized
allows only vertical lens is placed between, no
component of light through. light passes through.
Circularly Polarized Antenna
 Antenna Beam Forming
• High sensitivity/High Directivity
increases radar detection range
and exploits weak signals
• Radars separated by ½
wavelength to utilize
constructive/destructive
interference

• Directionality is a function of
either waveguide physical design
or constructive/destructive
interference.
 Directivity
• Ability to focus
energy in a specific
direction (azimuth
and elevation)
– Power Density of
beam not uniform
– Beamwidth measured
at 3 dB down point in
az/elev
– Search Radar - larger
beamwidth for
detection and
tracking
– Fire Control Radar –
smaller beamwidth
for accurate targeting
solution
Linear Array
 Linear Array
• Broadside –
Propagates on Z-Axis,
perpendicular to
antenna array. Signal
from individual
elements transmitted
in phase.

• End Fire – Radiates

only on X-Axis, in-line
with antenna array.
Element signals
transmitted 180 degs
out of phase

• Individual phase shifts

between 0 – 180 degs
will result in antenna
pattern shifting
 Linear Array Electronic Steering
• By inducing phase shift between elements, can electronically
focus beam and steer it
• No mechanical breakdown, physical restrictions, and can use
same system for multiple roles (Search, Tracking, Fire
Control) simultaneously
Phased Array
 Quasi-Optical Systems
• Parasitic Elements - used to concentrate the
beam in one direction only .
– A current is induced in the element to cause destructive
interference in specific direction.
• Reflectors
– Reflective material placed near radiating antennas.
• Parabolic shapes (dishes) used to concentrate energy into a
narrow beam (i.e. radar reflectors).
 Objectives
• Explain how the elementary dipole antenna
transmits electromagnetic waves.
• Calculate optimum antenna height for a given
frequency both grounded and ungrounded.
• Identify the two types of antenna polarization.
• Interpret the beam power distribution pattern for
a single dipole antenna and a linear antenna array
(broadside and end fire) and identify sidelobes.
• Describe how quasi-optical systems increase
antenna directivity.