A simpler reference antenna gain measurement method

Abstract

AbstractA simpler reference antenna gain measurement method, involving only 2 antennas—the test antenna and a reference antenna—is considered in this communication. It is shown that using this method, which can facilitate quick measurements, the gain of the test antenna can be measured nearly as accurately as through conventional measurement methods, including the 2‐antenna method. Careful gain measurements are done to this end by performing the Vector Network Analyzer's full 2 port calibration between the antenna under test and transmit end cables. The measured gain values using the proposed method are compared with the established gain measurement methods to prove the methodology. Though this possibility appears to be known to some antenna engineers, a demonstration has not yet been reported to the best of the authors’ knowledge. This communication presents such a demonstration.