Antenna Radiation Pattern Testing
free space performance tested with the MegiQ
Testing in an anechoic chamber
Before making any calculations of the expected performance of an antenna in a particular environment such as a building or subway, it is useful to understand its performance in free space. In order to do this in a controlled fashion a test chamber, known as an anechoic chamber can be used. This must be large enough that the transmit and receive points are several wavelengths apart, and the inside is filled with rf absorbent triangle shapes that produce random reflections in order to minimise any effects caused by the walls of the test room.
A cost effective alternative
Such anechoic test chambers can be large and expensive either to own or to rent, and in many cases it is possible to use simple test equipment such as the that from MegiQ in order to obtain results close to those which would be achieved at much higher cost in a chamber.
Measurements are taken in 3 axes to give model the antenna’s performance.
Measure transmit or receive
The receive and transmit performance of an antenna are identical. This is a principle known as reciprocity. Therefore, it is only necessary to measure one of these to have a complete picture of the antenna’s performance. Measurements are made either with the antenna transmitting or receiving from a known calibrated source.
Trust the experts. How akorIoT can help
The akorIoT team have many years of experience in testing antenna performance as well as the expertise to advise you on any modifications that can be made to improve performance and lower cost of your final design.
The team offer a range of services to help you get the best possible performance from an antenna, contact us today find out how we can help.