Helical Antenna
Helical Antenna
Normal mode
Axial mode
In this article, we will have a complete idea about the helical antenna.
We have already discussed in the beginning that there are two modes of
operation of the helical antenna. And the deciding factor for the mode of
operation is the diameter of the helix and spacing between two consecutive
turns.
The pitch angle of the helix is the angle existing between the tangential line
to the helical wire and the plane in direction, normal to its axis.
Thus
Hence
Thus, we can say, the radiation characteristics of the antenna are changed
by varying these parameters according to the wavelength.
It is noteworthy that a helical antenna may radiate in various mode but the
two most prominent modes are discussed here.
NL < < λ
However, this small dimensional antenna offers low radiation
efficiency and very narrow bandwidth.
The antenna in this configuration is known as broadside helical antenna
and acts as an electric short dipole antenna.
The reason behind this is that at α = 0°, the helix corresponds as loop and
at α = 90°, it acts as a linear dipole. Therefore, patch angle at 0° and 90°
serves as the limiting conditions of the helical antenna.
So, we can say, if the spacing tends to zero but the diameter is constant
then helix resembles like a loop. But if the spacing is fixed while diameter
tends to zero, then helix transforms into a linear conductor.
This is represented below:
This means,
NL ≈ λ
Unlike normal mode, this mode of the helical antenna produces a broad
and highly directional beam in the axial direction. Thus, this mode of the
helical antenna is used for practical applications.
For practical purpose, the helix is made with circumference nearly equal to
one wavelength and spacing nearly λ/4.
For axial mode, the pitch angle shows variation between 12° to 18°,
however, at 14° this mode shows best results.
The complete length of the helix decides its gain and bandwidth.
The value of terminal impedance is nearly 100 ohms and varies according
to frequency.
Radiation Pattern
The figure below represents the radiation pattern of the helical antenna
operating in axial mode:
Advantages
Related Terms:
1. Long Wire Antenna
2. Types of Antennas
3. Antenna Measurements – Radiation Pattern
4. Radiation Pattern of Antenna
5. V Antenna
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