Predicting antenna parameters from antenna physical dimensions

Abstract

This report details the development and provides the documentation for custom computer software applications that evaluate antenna parameters. The applications are written in Mathcad 3.1 for the following antenna types: linear, planar, and circular arrays; folded dipole; caged dipole; parabolic reflectors with helical and spiral feeds. Inputs to the applications are limited to the antenna's physical dimensions. In some cases, ground parameters are required. The chapters are structured to provide the user with the necessary information needed to use and interpret the software for each antenna type. The software applications are provided as appendices and give examples of each antenna type. Outputs of the applications provide various numerical and performance predictions, as well as far-field radiation patterns. The results computed are consistent with predictions provided in applicable publications, as well as those calculated by numerical antenna analysis programs such as ELNEC