Abstract
This chapter presents a discussion of antenna gain and pattern measurements. One way to characterize radio antennas is by their radiation pattern. When a signal propagates from an antenna, it radiates in some directions more than others. A theoretical construct called an “isotropic source” is a spherical point source that radiates in all directions. An antenna shows an apparent increase in power in preferred directions because the power that is spread over the isotropic surface is concentrated in the preferred direction; this is the gain of the antenna, and the gain in any given direction can be found by comparing the signal strength in that direction to the signal strength of the same unit area on the surface of the radiating isotropic source. This is called “gain over isotropic” and is expressed in decibels. When a map of the gains in all directions is made, the radiation pattern of the antenna can be obtained. The overall radiation pattern is a solid three-dimensional geometric figure and hence, horizontal and vertical slices can be taken out of the pattern and presented as a representative of the whole radiation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
