Measuring Antenna Pattern and Gain AIM:

To observe the radiation pattern and to measure the 3-dB beamwidth and gain of a horn antenna.

INTRODUCTION:
The radiation pattern of the antenna is a plot of its field intensity or the radiated power as a function of or at a constant distance from radiating source. The 3-dB beamwidth is the angle between two points on the main lobe where the power intensity is half the maximum power intensity. The 3-dB bandwidth can be directly calculated from the radiation pattern of the antenna.

PROCEDURE:
RADIATION PATTERN MEASUREMENT: 1. Obtain a maximum deflection on the power meter connected to the receiving antenna by adjusting the variable attenuator. 2. Tune the frequency meter to determine the frequency of operation. After the frequency has been determined detune the frequency meter. 3. Turn the receiving antenna to right in steps of 5 degrees and note the power meter reading. 4. Repeat the above step by turning the antenna towards left. 5. Plot the radiation pattern as power meter reading vs degrees and determine the 3-dB beamwidth of the antenna. GAIN MEASUREMENT: To calculate gain we use two identical antennas for transmission and reception. Using the Friis equation, Pr =Pt Gt 2 / (4R2) we have: G=(4R/ ) * sqrt(Pr/Pt) Knowing Pr, Pt and R, G can be calculated.

EXPECTED OBSERVATIONS IN REPORT:

1. 2. 3. 4. Observation table containing angle and power. Plot of the radiation pattern of the antenna. 3-dB beamwidth of the antenna. Calculated gain.