Subject Name: Antennas & Propagation

Topic Name: Antenna Arrays

(Unit – 2)
Prepared

By

Dr. S.Omkumar,

Associate Professor,

Department of ECE

SCSVMV

Syllabus / Antenna Arrays

1. Broad side arrays
2. End fire arrays
3. Collinear arrays
Example of Antenna Arrays:
Yagi Uda Arrays
Aim and Objective:

• To give insight of basic Knowledge of Antenna Arrays

• To give thorough understanding of the radiation characteristics of types of

Antenna Arrays i.e Broad side array, End fire array and Collinear arrays.

• To impart knowledge about applications of Antenna Arrays

Pre – Test MCQ:

1. An antenna is a transitional structure between –

(a) Free space and guiding element
(b) Free space and free space
(c) Guiding element and another guiding element
(d) All of the above
Answer - a

2. The guiding device used for the antenna system –

(a) Transmission line
(b) Co-axial line
(c) Waveguide
(d) All of the above
Answer - d

3. If the radiation from an antenna is represented in terms of field strength, it is called –

(a) Field pattern
(b) Power pattern
(c) Radiation pattern
(d) None of the above
Answer - a

4. A major lobe is defined as the radiation lobe containing –

(a) Direction of minimum radiation
(b) Direction of maximum radiation
(c) Direction of moderate radiation
(d) None of the above
Answer - b

5. The First-null beam width (FNBW) is defined as the angular measurement between the
directions –
(a) radiating the maximum power
(b) radiating half of the maximum power
 (c) radiating no power
(d) None of the above
Answer - c

6. The half-power beam width (HPBW) is defined as the angular measurement between
the directions –
(a) radiating the maximum power
(b) radiating half of the maximum power
(c) radiating no power
(d) None of the above
Answer - b

7. The 𝑥-𝑧 plane (elevation plane; 𝜙 = 0) is the principal –

(a) 𝑬-plane
(b) H-plane
(c) Either E-plane or H-plane
(d) None of the above
Answer - a

8. An Omni directional antenna is a special antenna of type –

(a) Directional
(b) Non-directional
(c) Isotropic
(d) None of the above
Answer - a

9. The ratio of the main beam area to the total beam area is called –
(a) beam efficiency
(b) beam deficiency
(c) stray factor
(d) None of the above
Answer - a

10. Radiation density is defined as power per –

(a) Unit area
(b) Unit angle
(c) Unit field
(d) None of the above
Answer - a
 11. Radiation intensity is defines as power per -
(a) Unit area
(b) Unit angle
(c) Unit field
(d) None of the above
Answer - b

12. The radiation intensity can be obtained by multiplying the radiation density by –
(a) The distance
(b) Square of the distance
(c) Cube of the distance
(d) None of the above
Answer - b

13. Directivity is defined as the ratio of the maximum radiation intensity to –

(a) average radiation intensity
(b) peak radiation intensity
(c) unity radiation intensity
(d) None of the above
Answer - a

14. The gain of an antenna is an actual quantity which is less than directivity (𝐷) due to –
(a) Radiating losses in the antenna
(b) ohmic losses in the antenna
(c) inductive losses in the antenna
(d) All of the above
Answer - b
15. In an antenna system, the maximum power transfer takes place when the antenna is
__________to the source.
(a) Perfectly matched
(b) Inductively matched
(c) Conjugate matched
(d) None of the above
Answer - c

Pre-requisite

• Basic knowledge of Electromagnetic Fields and Wave guides.

• Basic Knowledge of Antenna Parameters and Radiations

 1

UNIT II: ANTENNA ARRAYS

N element linear array, Pattern multiplication, Broadside and End fire array –
Concept of Phased arrays, Adaptive array, Basic principle of antenna Synthesis-
Binomial array, Yagi Arrays.

INTRODUCTION – ARRAY ANTENNAS:

 The radiation pattern of a single element is relatively wide, and each element provides low
values of directivity (gain). In many applications, it is necessary to design antennas with very
directive characteristics (very high gains) to meet the demands of long distance
communication. This can only be accomplished by increasing the electrical size of the
antenna.
Note: Higher directivity is the basic requirement in point-to-point communication, radars and
space applications.
 Enlarging the dimensions of single elements often leads to more directive characteristics.
Another way to enlarge the dimensions of the antenna, without necessarily increasing the size
of the individual elements, is to form an assembly of radiating elements in an electrical and
geometrical configuration. This new antenna, formed by multielements, is referred to as an
array. Inmost cases, the elements of an array are identical. The individual elements of an array
may be of any form (wires, apertures, etc.).
 Thus antenna array can be defined as the system of similar antennas directed to get required
high directivity in the desired direction.
 The total field of the array is determined by the vector addition of the fields radiated by the
individual elements. The individual element is generally called element of an antenna array.
This assumes that the current in each element is the same as that of the isolated element
(neglecting coupling).
 The antenna array is said to be linear if the elements of the antenna array are equally spaced
along a straight line. The linear antenna array is said to be uniform linear array if all the
elements are fed with a current of equal magnitude with progressive uniform phase shift
along the line.
 In an array of identical elements, there are at least five controls that can be used to shapethe
overall pattern of the antenna. These are:
 the geometrical configuration of the overall array (linear, circular, rectangular, spherical, etc.)
 the relative displacement between the elements
 the excitation amplitude of the individual elements
 the excitation phase of the individual elements
 the relative pattern of the individual elements

 Practically various forms of the antenna array are used as radiating systems. They are;
i. Broadside Array (BSA) ii. End-Fire Array (EFA)
iii. Collinear Array iv. Parasitic Array
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 Broadside Array (BSA)

 The broadside array is the array of antennas in which all the elements are placed parallel to
each other and the direction of maximum radiation is always perpendicular to the plane
consisting elements.A typical arrangement of a Broadside array is as shown in Fig. 3-1.
 A broadside array consists number of identical antennas placed parallel to each other along a
straight line. This straight line is perpendicular to the axis of individual antenna. It is known
as axis of antenna array. Thus each element is perpendicular to the axis of antenna array.
 All the individual antennas are spaced equally along the axis of antenna array. The spacing
between any two elements is denoted by ′𝑑′. All the elements are fed with currents with equal
magnitude and same phase. As the maximum radiation is directed in broadside direction i.e.
perpendicular to the line of axis of array, the radiation pattern for the broadside array is
bidirectional.
 Thus broadside array can be defined as the arrangement of antennas in which maximum
radiation is in the direction perpendicular to the axis of array and plane containing the
elements of array.

Fig. 3-1 Broadside array

 End-Fire Array (EFA)

 The end fire array is very much similar to the broadside array from the point of view of
arrangement. But the main difference is in the direction of maximum radiation. In broadside
array, the direction of the maximum radiation is perpendicular to the axis of array; while in
the end fire array, the direction of the maximum radiation is along the axis of array.

Fig. 3-2 End-fire array

 Thus in the end fire array number of identical antennas are spaced equally along a line. All the
antennas are fed individually with currents of equal magnitudes but their phases vary
progressively along the line to get entire arrangement unidirectional finally. i.e. maximum
radiation along the axis of array as shown in Fig. 3-2.
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 Thus end fire array can be defined as an array with direction of maximum radiation coincides
with the direction of the axis of array to get unidirectional radiation.

 Collinear array
 As the name indicates, in the collinear array, the antennas are arranged co-axially i.e. the
antennas are arranged end to end along, a single line as shown in Fig. 3-3 (a) and (b).

Fig. 3-3 Collinear array

 The individual elements in the collinear array are fed with currents equal in magnitude and
phase. This condition is similar to the broadside array. In collinear array the direction of
maximum radiation is perpendicular to the axis of array.
 So the radiation pattern of the collinear array and the broadside array is very much similar
but the radiation pattern of the collinear array has circular symmetry with main lobe
perpendicular everywhere to the principle axis. Thus the collinear array is also called omni
directional array or broadcast array.
 The gain of the collinear array is maximum if the spacing between the elements is of the order
of 0.3 λ to 0.5 λ.

 Parasitic array
 In order to overcome feeding problems of the antenna, sometimes, the elements of the array
are fed through the radiation from the nearby element. The array of antennas in which the
parasitic elements get the power through electromagnetic coupling with driven element
which is in proximity with the parasitic element is known as parasitic array.
 The simplest form of the parasitic array consists one driven element and one parasitic
element. In multielement parasitic array, there may be one or more driving elements and also
one or more parasitic elements. So in general the multielement parasitic array is the array
with at least one driven element and one or more parasitic elements.
 The common example of the parasitic array with linear half wave dipoles as elements of array
is Yagi-Uda array or simply Yagi antenna.
 The amplitude and the phase of the current induced in the parasitic element depends on the
spacing between the driven element and parasitic element. To make the radiation pattern
 4

unidirectional, the relative phases of the currents are changed by adjusting the spacing
between the elements. This is called tuning of array. For a spacing between the driven and
parasitic element equal to 𝜆/4 and phase difference of 𝜋/2 radian, unidirectional radiation
pattern is obtained.

ARRAY OF POINT SOURCES

 The array of point sources is nothing but the array of an isotropic radiators occupying zero
volume. For the greater number of point source in the array, the analysis of antenna array
becomes complicated and time consuming. Also the simplest condition of number of point
sources in the array is two. Then conveniently analysis is done by considering first two point
sources, which are separated by distance 𝑑 and having same polarization. The results
obtained for only two point sources can be further extended for ′𝑛′ number of point sources in
the array.
 Let us consider the array of two isotropic point sources, with a distance of separation
′𝑑′ between them. The polarization of two isotropic point sources is assumed to be the same.
To derive different expressions following conditions can be applied to the antenna array ;
1. Two point sources with currents of equal magnitudes and with same phase.
2. Two point sources with currents of equal magnitude but with opposite phase.
3. Two point sources with currents of unequal magnitudes and with any phase.

 Two Point Sources with Currents Equal in Magnitude and Phase:

 Consider two point-sources 1 and 2 separated by distance ′𝑑′ and both the point sources are
supplied with currents equal in magnitude and phase as shown in Fig. 3-4.
 Let point 𝑃 far away from the array and the distance between point 𝑃 and point sources 1
and 2 be 𝑟1 and 𝑟2 respectively.
Assuming far-field observations ,
𝑟1 ≈ 𝑟2 ≈ 𝑟 -------- (3.1)

Fig. 3-4 Two element array

 The radiation from the point source 2 will reach earlier at point 𝑃 than that from point
source 1 because of the path difference. The extra distance is travelled by the radiated wave
from point source 1 than that by the wave radiated from point source 2. Hence path difference
is given by,
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𝑑 𝑑
𝑃𝑎𝑡ℎ 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 = cos 𝜙 + cos 𝜙 = 𝑑 cos 𝜙 -------- (3.2)
2 2

 The path difference can be expressed in terms of wavelength as ;

𝑑
𝑃𝑎𝑡ℎ 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 = cos 𝜙
𝜆
Hence the phase difference ′𝜓′is given by ;

𝑃ℎ𝑎𝑠𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝜓 = 2𝜋 × 𝑃𝑎𝑡ℎ 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑘 = 2𝜋

𝑑 2𝜋 𝜆
𝜓 = 2𝜋 × cos 𝜙 = 𝑑 cos 𝜙
𝜆 𝜆
𝜓 = 𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 -------- (3.3)
𝜓 𝜓
Let 𝐸1 = 𝐸0. 𝑒 −𝑗 2 is field component due topoint source 1. Similarly, let 𝐸 = . 𝑒2 𝑗
 0 2 is field

component due to point source 2. Therefore, the total far-field at a distant point 𝑃 is ;
𝜓 𝜓
𝐸 = 𝐸 + 𝐸 = 𝐸 . 𝑒−𝑗 + 𝐸 . 𝑒𝑗
2 2
𝑇 1 2 0 0
𝜓 𝜓 𝜓
𝐸𝑇 = 𝐸0 (𝑒−𝑗2 + 𝑒𝑗2 ) = 2𝐸0 cos -------- (3.4)
2

Note that the amplitude of both the field components is 𝐸0 as currents are same and the point
sources are identical.
Substituting value of 𝜓 from Eqn. (3.3), we get,

𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙
𝐸𝑇 = 2𝐸0 cos [ ] -------- (3.5)
2

 Above equation represents total field intensity at point 𝑃, due to two point sources having
currents of same amplitude and phase. The total amplitude of the field at point 𝑃 is 2𝐸0 while
the phase shift is (𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙)/2 . By putting 2𝐸0 = 1 , then the pattern is said to be normalized.

 Maxima direction:
𝑘 𝑑 cos
 From Eqn. (3.5), the total field is maximum when cos [ is] maximum. Maximum value
2
of cosine function is ±1. Hence the condition for maxima is given by,
𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙
cos [ ] = ±1 -------- (3.6)
2
 Let spacing between the two poi nt sources be 𝜆/2 , then ; 2𝜋 𝜆
𝑘= ;𝑑=
𝜋 𝜆 2
cos [ cos 𝜙] = ±1
2
π
𝑖. 𝑒, cos𝜙2 𝑚𝑎𝑥 = cos−1(±1) = ±nπ, 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒, 𝑛 = 0,1,2, ….
π
If 𝑛 = 0, then ; cos𝜙 𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 0
2

cos𝜙 𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 0 ; 𝜙 𝑚𝑎 = 90° or 270° --------------- (3.7)

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 Minima direction:
𝑘 𝑑 cos 𝜙
 From Eqn. (3.5), the total field is minimum when cos [ ] is minimum. Minimum value
2
of cosine function is 0. Hence the condition for maxima is given by,
𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙
cos [ ]=0 -------- (3.8)
2
 Let spacing between the two point sources be 𝜆/2 , then ;
𝜋
cos [ cos 𝜙] = 0
2
π 𝜋
𝑖. 𝑒, cos𝜙 𝑚𝑖 = cos−1(0) = ±(2𝑛 + 1) , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒, 𝑛 = 0,1,2, ….
2 2

π 𝜋
If 𝑛 = 0, then ; cos𝜙 𝑚𝑖𝑛 = ±
2 2

cos𝜙 𝑚𝑖𝑛 = ±1 ; 𝜙 𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 0° or 180° -------- (3.9)

 Half power point directions:

1
 When the power is half, the voltage or current is times the maximum value. Hence the
√2
condition for half power point is given by,
𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 1
cos [ ]= ± -------- (3.10)
2 √2
 Let spacing between the two point sources be 𝜆/2 , then ;
𝜋 1
cos [ cos 𝜙] = ±
2 √2
π 1 𝜋
𝑖. 𝑒, cos𝜙 𝐻𝑃𝑃𝐷 = cos−1 (± ) = ± , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒, 𝑛 = 0,1,2, ….
2 √2 4

π 𝜋
If 𝑛 = 0, then ; cos𝜙 𝐻𝑃𝑃𝐷 = ±
2 4
1
cos𝜙 𝐻𝑃𝑃𝐷 = ± ; 𝜙 𝐻𝑃𝑃𝐷 = ±60° or ± 120° -------- (3.11)
2

 The field pattern drawn with 𝐸𝑇 against 𝜙 for 𝑑 = 𝜆/2, then the pattern is bidirectional as
shown in Fig. 3-5. The field pattern obtained is bidirectional and it is a figure of eight (8). If
this patterns is rotated by 360° about axis, it will represent three dimensional doughnut
shaped space pattern.
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Fig. 3-5 Field pattern for two point source with 𝒅 = 𝝀/𝟐 and
fed with currents equal in magnitude and phase.

 Two Point Sources with Currents Equal in Magnitude and opposite phase:
 Consider two point sources separated by distance ′𝑑′ and supplied with currents equalin
magnitude but opposite phase. Consider Fig.3-4, all theconditions are exactly same except the
phase of the currents is opposite i.e. 180°. Withthis condition, the total field at far point 𝑃 is
given by,
𝐸𝑇 = (−𝐸1) + 𝐸2 -------- (3.12)
 Assuming equal magnitudes of currents, the fields at point 𝑃 due to the point sources 1 and 2
can be written as ; 𝐸 = 𝐸 . 𝑒−𝑗 𝜓2
1 0
𝜓
𝑗
𝐸2 = 𝐸0. 𝑒 2

 Therefore, the total far-field at a distant point 𝑃 is ;

𝜓 𝜓
𝐸 = (−𝐸 ) + 𝐸 = −𝐸 . 𝑒−𝑗 + 𝐸 .𝜓𝑒𝑗
𝐸 = 𝐸 (𝑒𝑗 − 𝑒𝜓−𝑗 ) = 𝑗𝜓(2𝐸 ) sin
-------- (3.13)

 Now as the condition for two point sources with currents in phase and out of phaseis exactly
same, the phase angle can be written as ;
𝜓 = 𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 -------- (3.14)

Substituting value of 𝜓 in Eqn. (2.93), we get,

𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙
𝐸𝑇 = 𝑗(2𝐸0) sin [ ] -------- (3.15)
2
By putting (2𝐸0) = 1 , then the pattern is said to be normalized.
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 Maxima direction:
𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙
 From Eqn. (3.15), the total field is maximum when sin [ ]is maximum. Maximum
2
value of sine function is ±1. Hence the condition for maxima is given by,
𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙
sin [ ] = ±1 -------- (3.16)
2
 Let spacing between the two poin t sources be 𝜆/2 , then ; 2𝜋 𝜆
𝑘= ;𝑑=
𝜋 𝜆 2
sin [ cos 𝜙] = ±1
2
π 𝜋
𝑖. 𝑒, cos 𝜙 𝑚𝑎𝑥 = sin−1( ±1) = ±(2𝑛 + 1) , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒, 𝑛 = 0,1,2, ….
2 2

π 𝜋
If 𝑛 = 0, then ; cos𝜙
2 𝑚𝑖 =±
2
cos𝜙 𝑚𝑎𝑥 = ±1 ; 𝜙 𝑚𝑎 = 0° or 180°--------------- (3.17)

 Minima direction:
𝑘 𝑑 cos 𝜙
 From Eqn. (3.15), the total field is minimum when sin[ ] is minimum. Minimum
2
value of sine function is 0.Hence the condition for maxima is given by,
𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙
sin [ ]=0 -------- (3.18)
2
 Let spacing between the two point sources be 𝜆/2 , then ;
𝜋
sin [ cos 𝜙] = 0
2
π
𝑖. 𝑒, cos𝜙 𝑚𝑖𝑛 = sin−1(0) = ±𝑛𝜋, 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒, 𝑛 = 0,1,2, ….
2
π
cos𝜙 𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 0
If 𝑛 = 0, then ; 2

cos𝜙 𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 0 ; 𝜙 𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 90° or 270° -------- (3.19)

 Half power point directions:

1
 When the power is half, the voltage or current is times the maximum value. Hence the
√2
condition for half power point is given by,
𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 1
sin [ ]= ± -------- (3.20)
2 √2
 Let spacing between the two point sources be 𝜆/2 , then ;
𝜋 1
sin [ cos 𝜙] = ±
2 √2
π 1 𝜋
𝑖. 𝑒, cos𝜙 𝐻𝑃𝑃𝐷 = sin−1 (± ) = ± , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒, 𝑛 = 0,1,2, ….
2 √2 4
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π 𝜋
If 𝑛 = 0, then ; cos𝜙 𝐻𝑃𝑃𝐷 = ±
2 4

1
cos𝜙 𝐻𝑃𝑃𝐷 = ± ; 𝜙 𝐻𝑃𝑃𝐷 = ±60° or ± 120° -------- (3.21)
2

 Thus from the conditions of maxima, minima and half power points, the field pattern can be
drawn with 𝐸𝑇 against 𝜙 for 𝑑 = 𝜆/2 as shown in Fig. 3-6.

Fig. 3-6 Field pattern for two point source with 𝒅 = 𝝀/𝟐 and
fed with currents equal in magnitude and out of phase.

 Two Point Sources with Currents Unequal in Magnitudeand with any Phase:
 Let us consider, two point sources are separated by distance 𝑑 and supplied with currents
which are different in magnitudes and with any phase difference say 𝛼, as shown in
Fig. 3-7 (a).
 Assume that source 1 is taken as reference for phase. The amplitude of the fields due to
source 1 and source 2 at the distant point 𝑃 is 𝐸1 and 𝐸2 respectively, in which 𝐸1 is greater
than 𝐸2 , as shown in the vector diagram in Fig. 3-7 (b).

Fig. 3-7 (a) Two point sources with currents unequal in magnitude
and with any phase (b) Vector diagram
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 Now the total phase difference between the radiations by the two point sources at any far
point 𝑃 is given by,

𝜓 = 𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 + 𝛼 -------- (3.22)

where 𝛼 is the phase angle with which current 𝐼2leads current𝐼1.

Then the resultant field at point 𝑃 is given by,
𝐸𝑇 = 𝐸1𝑒𝑗0 + 𝐸2𝑒𝑗𝜓 -------- (3.23)
(Source 1 is assumed to be reference hence phase angle is 0)
𝐸2
𝐸 = 𝐸 + 𝐸 𝑒𝑗𝜓 = 𝐸 (1 + 𝑒𝑗𝜓)
𝑇 1 2 1
𝐸1

Let 𝐸2 𝐸𝑇 = 𝐸1[1 + 𝑘(cos 𝜓) + 𝑗 sin 𝜓]

=𝑘 -------- (3.24)
𝐸1
Note that 𝐸1 > 𝐸2 , the value of 𝑘 is less than unity and varies from 0 ≤ 𝑘 ≤ 1.

 The magnitude and phase angle of the resultant field at point 𝑃 is given by,

|𝐸𝑇| = 𝐸1√(1 + 𝑘 cos 𝜓)2 + 𝑗(𝑘 sin 𝜓)2 -------- (3.25)

𝑘 sin 𝜓
𝜃 = tan−1 -------- (3.26)
1 + 𝑘 cos 𝜓

N- ELEMENT UNIFORM LINEAR ARRAY:

 An array of 𝑁 elements is said to be linear array if all the individual elements are spaced
equally along a line. An array is said to be uniform array if the elements in the array are fed
with currents with equal magnitudes and with uniform progressive phase shift along the line.
 Consider uniform linear array of 𝑵 isotropic point sources with all the individual elements
spaced equally at distance ′𝑑′ from each other and all elements are fed with currents equal in
magnitude and uniform progressive phase shift along line as shown in Fig. 3-8.

Fig. 3-8 Uniform linear array of 𝑵 elements

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 The total resultant field at the distant point 𝑃 is obtained by adding the fields due to
𝑁 individual sources vectorically. Hence,

𝐸𝑇 = 𝐸0𝑒𝑗0 + 𝐸0𝑒𝑗𝜓 + 𝐸0𝑒2𝑗𝜓 + ⋯ ⋯ ⋯ + 𝐸0𝑒(𝑁−1)𝑗𝜓

𝐸𝑇 = 𝐸0(1 + 𝑒𝑗𝜓 + 𝑒2𝑗𝜓 + ⋯ ⋯ ⋯ + 𝑒(𝑁−1)𝑗𝜓) -------- (3.27)

 Note that 𝜓 = 𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 + 𝛼 indicates the total phase difference of the fields from adjacent
sources calculated at point . Simlarly 𝛼 is the progressive phase shift betweentwo
adjacentpoint sources. The value of 𝛼 may lie between 0°and 180°. If 𝛼 = 0° we get 𝑁 element
uniform linear broadside array. If 𝛼 = 180°, we get 𝑁 element uniformlinear end fire array.
Multiply by 𝑒𝑗𝜓 on both sides ;
𝐸𝑇𝑒𝑗𝜓 = 𝐸0(𝑒𝑗𝜓 + 𝑒2𝑗𝜓 + 𝑒3𝑗𝜓 + ⋯ ⋯ ⋯ + 𝑒𝑁𝑗𝜓) -------- (3.28)
 Subtract Eqn. (3.27) and (3.28) ;
𝐸𝑇(1 − 𝑒𝑗𝜓) = 𝐸0(1 − 𝑒𝑁𝑗𝜓)

𝐸𝑇 (1 − 𝑒𝑁𝑗𝜓) 𝑗[(𝑁−1)/2]𝜓 [
𝑒𝑗(𝑁/2)𝜓 − 𝑒−𝑗(𝑁/2)𝜓
= = 𝑒 ] -------- (3.29)
𝐸0 (1 − 𝑒𝑗𝜓 𝑒𝑗(1/2)𝜓 − 𝑒−𝑗(1/2)𝜓

 If the reference point is the physical center of the array, then Eqn. (2.94)reduces to ;
𝑁
𝐸𝑇 sin ( 𝜓)
2
𝐸 = 𝐴𝐹 = [ 1 ]
0 sin ( 𝜓)
2
which is the antenna array factor.

 If 𝜓 = 0, the maximum value of 𝐸𝑇 is determined using L’Hospital’s rule ;

𝐸𝑇 𝑚𝑎 = 𝐸0 𝑁
 Thus the maximum value of 𝐸𝑇 is 𝑁 times the field from a single source. To normalize the
field pattern , so that the maximum value of each is equal to unity. The normalized field
pattern is given by ;
𝑁
𝐸𝑇 sin ( 2 𝜓)
(𝐸𝑇) 𝑁 = -------- (3.30)
=[ ]
𝐸𝑇 𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝑁 sin (12 𝜓)

 Eqn. (3.30) is the normalized array factor ;

𝑁
sin𝜓)
(
(𝐴𝐹)𝑁 = [ 2
1 ] -------- (3.31)
𝑁 sin ( 𝜓)
2

BROADSIDE ARRAY (BSA)

 An array is said to be broadside array, if maximum radiation occurs in direction perpendicular
to array axis.
 In broadside array, individual elements are equally spaced along a line and each element is
fed with current of equal magnitude and same phase.
 The total phase difference of the fields at point 𝑃 from adjacent sources is given by,
 12

𝜓 = 𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 + 𝛼 -------- (3.32)

 The normalized array factor for ′𝑁′ elements ; 𝑁

sin 𝜓)
(
(𝐴𝐹)𝑁 = [ 2
1 ] -------- (3.33)
𝑁 sin ( 𝜓)
2

Major lobe
 In broadside array sources should be in phase i.e., 𝛼 = 0° and 𝜓 = 0 for maximum must be
satisfied.

𝜓 = 𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 + 𝛼 = 0
𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 + 𝛼 = 0 ∵𝛼=0
cos 𝜙 = 0 ; 𝜙 𝑚 = 90° or 270°

Nulls
 To find the nulls of the array Eqn. (3.33) is set to zero ;
2𝜋
𝑁 𝑁 𝑘=
sin ( 𝜓) = 0 = ±𝑛𝜋2 𝜆
2  𝜓|
𝜙=𝜙𝑛
𝑁 𝑛𝜆 -------- (3.34)
(𝑘𝑑 cos𝜙𝑛 + 𝛼) = ±𝑛𝜋 𝜙 = cos−1 (± )
For BSA 𝛼 = 0° 2  𝑛 𝑁𝑑
where ; 𝑛 = 1, 2, 3 …
Maxima of minor lobes (secondary maxima)
 The maximum value of Eqn. (3.33) occur when ;
𝑁 𝑁 𝜋 2𝜋
sin ( 𝜓) = 1 2 𝜓| = ±(2𝑠 + 1) 𝑘=
2 𝜙=𝜙𝑠 2 𝜆
𝑁 𝜋
(𝑘𝑑 cos𝜙𝑠 + 𝛼) = ±(2𝑠 + 1)
2 2
1 (2𝑠 + 1)𝜋
𝜙 = cos−1 { [± − 𝛼]}
For BSA 𝛼 = 0° 𝑠 𝑘𝑑 𝑁
1 (2𝑠 + 1)𝜋 𝑠 = 1,2,3, …
𝜙 = cos−1 { [± ]}
𝑠 𝑘𝑑 𝑁
(2𝑠 + 1)𝜆 -------- (3.35)
𝜙 = cos−1 [± ]
𝑠 2𝑁𝑑

Beamwidth of major lobe

 Beamwidth is defined as angle between first null and maximum of major lobe (or) Beamwidth
is the angle equal to twice the angle between first null and the major lobe maximum.
𝐵𝑊𝐹𝑁 = 2 × 𝜙𝑏 = 2 × (90 − 𝜙𝑛)

90 − 𝜙𝑛 = 𝜙𝑏 90 − 𝜙𝑏 = 𝜙𝑛 -------- (3.36)

 13

𝑛𝜆
90 − 𝜙 = cos−1 (± )
𝑏 𝑁𝑑
Take cosine on both sides ;
𝑛𝜆
cos(90 − 𝜙 ) = cos (cos−1 (± ))
𝑏 𝑁𝑑

𝑛𝜆
sin 𝜙𝑏 = ±
𝑁𝑑
𝜆
For first null 𝑛 = 1 sin 𝜙𝑏 = +
𝑁𝑑

𝑁𝑑 indicates the total length of the array 𝐿

2𝜆
𝐵𝑊𝐹𝑁 = 2 × 𝜙𝑏 = + -------- (3.37)
𝑁𝑑
2𝜆 2
𝐵𝑊𝐹𝑁 = = 𝑟𝑎𝑑
𝐿 (𝐿/𝜆)
114.6°
𝐵𝑊𝐹𝑁 = 𝑑𝑒𝑔 -------- (3.38)
(𝐿/𝜆)
𝐵𝑊𝐹𝑁 1
Half power beamwidth (HPBW) 𝐻𝑃𝐵𝑊 = = 𝑟𝑎𝑑
2 (𝐿/𝜆)
57.3°
𝐻𝑃𝐵𝑊 = 𝑑𝑒𝑔 -------- (3.39)
(𝐿/𝜆)
Directivity
 Directivity can be expressed in terms of the total length of the array ;

𝐷𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 2(𝐿/𝜆) -------- (3.40)

Example: A broadside array of identical antennas consists of isotropic radiators separated

by a distance 𝒅 = 𝝀/𝟐. Obtain positions of maxima and minima of the radiation pattern.

Solution:

𝝀
Length of the array: 𝑁𝑑 = 4 ( ) = 𝟐𝝀
𝟐

Major lobe: 𝜙 𝑚 = 90° or 270°

Maxima of minor lobes (Secondary maxima):

(2𝑠 + 1)𝜆 𝑠 = 1 ; ±41.4° , ±138.6°
𝜙 = cos−1 [± ] 𝑠 = 1,2,3, …
𝑠 2𝑁𝑑

∴ These are the 4 minor lobe maxima of the array of 4 isotropic radiators fed in phase and
5
spaced 𝝀/𝟐 apart. No other maxima exist for 𝑠 ≥ 2 , because for 𝑠 = 2 , cos−1 (± ≫ 1 , )
4
whereas cosine value is always << 1.
 14

Nulls:
𝑛𝜆 𝑛 = 1,2,3, … 𝑛 = 1 ; ±60° , ±120°
𝜙 = cos−1 (± )
𝑛 𝑁𝑑 𝑛 = 2 ; ±0° , ±180°
∴ 0°, 60°, 120°, 180°, −60°, −120° are six minor lobe minima of the array of 4 isotropic radiators
spaced 𝝀/𝟐 apart. No other minima (nulls) exist for which cosine functions becomes more than
one.

END-FIRE ARRAY (EFA)

 An array is said to be end-fire array, if the direction of maximum radiation coincides with the
array axis.
 In end-fire array, individual elements are equally spaced along a line and each element is fed
with current of equal magnitude and opposite phase.
 The total phase difference of the fields at point 𝑃 from adjacent sources is given by,

𝜓 = 𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 + 𝛼 -------- (3.41)

 The normalized array factor for ′𝑁′ elements ; 𝑁

sin 𝜓)
(
(𝐴𝐹)𝑁 = [ 2
1 ] -------- (3.42)
𝑁 sin ( 𝜓)
2

Major lobe
 In end-fire array 𝜓 = 0 and𝜙 = 0° or 180°

𝜓 = 𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 + 𝛼 = 0
𝜓 = 0 and 𝜙 = 0° 𝛼 = −𝑘𝑑 -------- (3.43)

𝜓 = 0 and 𝜙 = 180° 𝛼 = 𝑘𝑑 -------- (3.44)

𝜙 𝑚 = 0° or 180°
 15

Nulls
 To find the nulls of the array Eqn. (3.42) is set to zero ;
2𝜋
𝑁 𝑁 𝑘=
sin ( 𝜓) = 0  𝜓|𝜙=𝜙 = ±𝑛𝜋2 𝜆
2 𝑛

𝑁
For EFA𝛼 = −𝑘𝑑 (𝑘𝑑 cos𝜙𝑛 + 𝛼) = ±𝑛𝜋
2
𝑁
(𝑘𝑑 cos𝜙𝑛 − 𝑘𝑑) = ±𝑛𝜋 where ; 𝑛 = 1, 2, 3 …
2
𝑁𝑑
(cos𝜙𝑛 − 1) = ±𝑛 -------- (3.45)
𝜆
𝜙𝑛 𝑛𝜆
2 sin2 =±
2 𝑁𝑑
𝑛𝜆
𝜙 = 2 sin−1 (±√ ) -------- (3.46)
𝑛 2𝑁𝑑
Further simplication : From Eqn. (3.45) , note that the value of (cos𝜙𝑛 − 1) is always less
than 1, Hence it is negative. So consider negative values of R.H.S ;
𝑁𝑑
From Eqn. (3.45): (cos𝜙𝑛 − 1) = −𝑛
𝜆
𝑛𝜆
𝜙𝑛 = cos−1 (1 − ) -------- (3.47)
𝑁𝑑

Maxima of minor lobes (secondary maxima)

 The maximum value of Eqn. (3.42) occur when ;
𝑁 𝑁 𝜋 2𝜋
sin ( 𝜓) = 1 𝑘=
2 2 𝜓| = ±(2𝑠 + 1)
2 𝜆
𝜙=𝜙𝑠
𝑁 𝜋
(𝑘𝑑 cos𝜙𝑠 + 𝛼) = ±(2𝑠 + 1)
2 2

For EFA 𝛼 = −𝑘𝑑 𝜆

(cos𝜙𝑠 − 1) = ±(2𝑠 + 1) 𝑠 = 1,2,3, … -------- (3.48)
2𝑁𝑑
𝜆
𝜙 = cos−1 [±(2𝑠 + 1) + 1] -------- (3.49)
𝑠 2𝑁𝑑

Further simplication : From Eqn. (3.48) , note that the value of (cos𝜙𝑠 − 1) is always less
than 1, Hence it is negative. So consider negative values of R.H.S ;
𝜆
From Eqn. (3.48): (cos𝜙𝑠 − 1) = −(2𝑠 + 1)
2𝑁𝑑
(2𝑠 + 1)𝜆
𝜙 = cos−1 [1 − ] -------- (3.50)
𝑠 2𝑁𝑑
 16

Beamwidth of major lobe

 Beamwidth is defined as angle between first null and maximum of major lobe (or) Beamwidth
is the angle equal to twice the angle between first null and the major lobe maximum.
𝐵𝑊𝐹𝑁 = 2 × 𝜙𝑛

𝑛𝜆
𝜙 = 2 sin−1 (±√ )
𝑛 2𝑁𝑑

𝜙𝑛 𝑛𝜆
sin = ±√
2 2𝑁𝑑

𝜙𝑛 𝑛𝜆
For small angles ; sin 𝜙𝑛 ≈ 𝜙𝑛 ≈ ±√
2 2𝑁𝑑

2𝑛𝜆
-------- (3.51)
𝜙𝑛 = ±√
𝑁𝑑
𝑁𝑑 indicates the total length of the array 𝐿
2𝑛𝜆
𝜙𝑛 = ±√
𝑁𝑑

2𝜆
For first null 𝑛 = 1 𝜙 𝑛 = ±√
𝐿
2𝜆
-------- (3.52)
𝐵𝑊𝐹𝑁 = 2 × 𝜙𝑛 = ±2√
𝐿
2
𝐵𝑊𝐹𝑁 = ±2√𝑟𝑎𝑑
(𝐿/𝜆)

2
𝐵𝑊𝐹𝑁 = 114.6°√𝑑𝑒𝑔 -------- (3.53)
(𝐿/𝜆)

𝐵𝑊𝐹𝑁 2
Half power beamwidth (HPBW) 𝐻𝑃𝐵𝑊 = = ±√
𝑟𝑎𝑑2
(𝐿/𝜆)
2
𝐻𝑃𝐵𝑊 = 57.3°√𝑑𝑒𝑔 -------- (3.54)
(𝐿/𝜆)
Directivity
 Directivity can be expressed in terms of the total length of the array ;

𝐷𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 4(𝐿/𝜆) -------- (3.55)

 17

Example: A end-fire array of identical antennas consists of isotropic radiators separated by a

distance 𝒅 = 𝝀/𝟐. Obtain positions of maxima and minima of the radiation pattern.

Solution:
𝝀
𝑁𝑑 =
Length of the array: 𝟐

Major lobe: 𝜙 𝑚 = 0° or 180°

Maxima of minor lobes (Secondary maxima):

𝜆 𝑠 = 1 ; ±75.5°
𝜙𝑠 = cos−1 [1 − (2𝑠 + 1) ] 𝑠 = 1,2,3, …
2𝑁𝑑
𝑠 = 2 ; ±104.5°

𝑠 = 3 ; ±138.6°

∴ These are the 6 minor lobe maxima of the array of 4 isotropic radiators fed spaced 𝝀/𝟐 apart.
5
No other maxima exist for 𝑠 ≥ 4 , because for 𝑠 = 4 , cos−1 (± ≫ )1 , whereas cosine value is
4
always << 1.
Nulls:
𝑛𝜆
𝜙 = cos−1 (1 − ) 𝑛 = 1,2,3, … 𝑛 = 1 ; ±60°
𝑛 𝑁𝑑 𝑛 = 2 ; ±90°
𝑛 = 3 ; ±120°
∴ ±60°, ±90°, ±120° are six minor lobe minima of the array of 4 isotropic radiators spaced 𝝀/𝟐
apart. No other minima (nulls) exist for which cosine functions becomes more than one.

HANSEN WOODYARD END-FIRE ARRAY

 In end-fire array, the maximum radiation can be obtained along the axis of the array , if the
progressive phase shift 𝛼 between the elements is given by ;

= ± 𝑘𝑑 ; 𝛼 = −𝑘𝑑 for maximum 𝜙 = 0° direction

𝛼 = 𝑘𝑑 for maximum 𝜙 = 180°direction

 It is found that the field produced in the direction 𝜙 = 0°is maximum, but the directivity is not
maximum. In many applications it is necessary to have the maximum possible directivity of
the linear array.
 18

 In 1938, Hansen and Woodyard proposed certain conditions for the end-fire case which are
helpful in enhancing the directivity without altering other characteistics of the end-fire array.
These conditions are known as Hansen –Woodyard conditions for end-fire radiation.
 According to Hansen –Woodyard conditions, the phase shift between closely spaced radiators
of a very long array should be ;

𝛼 = −(𝑘𝑑 + 2.94/𝑛) ≈ −(𝑘𝑑 + 𝜋/𝑛) for maximum 𝜙 = 0° direction

𝛼 = +(𝑘𝑑 + 2.94/𝑛) ≈ +(𝑘𝑑 + 𝜋/𝑛) for maximum 𝜙 = 180° direction

Directivity
 Directivity can be expressed in terms of the total length of the array ;

𝐷𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1.789[4(𝐿/𝜆)] -------- (3.56)

Parameter : Broadside array End-fire array Hansen –Woodyard End-fire array

Directivity 𝐷𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 2(𝐿/𝜆) 𝐷𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 4(𝐿/𝜆) 𝐷𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1.789[4(𝐿/𝜆)]

Where ; 𝐿 = 𝑁𝑑

PRINCIPLE OF PATTERN MULTIPLICATION

 The field pattern of an array of non-isotropic but similar sources is the product of the pattern of
the individual sources and the pattern of isotropic point sources having the same locations,
relative amplitudes, and phase as the non-isotropic point sources. This is referred to as pattern
multiplication for arrays of identical elements.

Total field (𝐸) = {𝐸𝑖(𝜃, 𝜙) × 𝐸𝑎(𝜃, 𝜙)} × {𝐸𝑝𝑖(𝜃, 𝜙) + 𝐸𝑝𝑎(𝜃, 𝜙)} -------- (3.57)
𝑀𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑖𝑝𝑙𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝐴𝑑𝑑𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑃ℎ𝑎𝑠𝑒
𝐹𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛 𝑃𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛

where ; 𝐸𝑖(𝜃, 𝜙) = Field pattern of individual source

𝐸𝑎(𝜃, 𝜙) = Field pattern of array of isotropic source
𝐸𝑝𝑖(𝜃, 𝜙) = Phase pattern of individual source
𝐸𝑝𝑎(𝜃, 𝜙) = Phase pattern of array of isotropic source

 RADIATION PATTERN OF 4-ISOTROPIC ELEMENTS FED IN PHASE & SPACED 𝝀/𝟐 APART
 Consider a 4-element array of antennas as shown in Fig. 3-8, in which the spacing between the
elements is 𝝀/𝟐 and the currents are in-phase (𝛼 = 0). The pattern can be obtained directly
by adding the four electric fields due to the 4 antennas. However the same radiation pattern
can be obtained by pattern multiplication in the following manner.
 19

Fig. 3-8 Linear array of 4 isotropic elements spaced 𝝀/𝟐 apart , fed in-phase
 Two isotropic point sources spaced 𝜆/2 apart fed in-phase provides a bidirectional pattern as
in Fig. 3-9 (b). Now the elements 1 and 2 are considered as one unit and this new unit is
considered to be placed between the midway of elements 1, 2 and similarly the elements 3,4
as shown in Fig. 3-9 (a).

Fig. 3-9
 4 elements spaced 𝜆/2 have been replaced by 2 units spaced 𝜆 and therefore the problem of
determining radiation of 4 elements has been reduced to find out the radiation pattern of 2
antennas spaced 𝜆 apart as in Fig. 3-9 (a).
𝑅𝑒𝑠𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑅𝑒𝑠𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑟𝑟𝑎𝑦 𝑜𝑓 2 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠
{ }={ }×{ }
𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛 𝑜𝑓 4 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑑 𝜆
 20

Fig. 3-10 Resultant radiation pattern of 4 isotropic elements by pattern multiplication

 Here the width of the principal lobe is the same as the width of the corresponding lobe of the
group pattern. The number of secondary lobes can be determined from the nulls in the
resultant pattern, which is sum of the nulls in the unit and group patterns.

CONCEPT OF PHASED ARRAYS, ADAPTIVE ARRAY

 In case of the broadside array and the end fire array, the maximum radiation can be obtained
by adjusting the phase excitation beween elements in the direction normal and along the axis
of array respectively.
 That means in other words elements of antenna array can be phased in particular way. So we
can obtain an array which gives maximum raidation in any direction by controlling phase
excitation in each element. Such an array is commonly called phased array.
 The array in which the phase and the amplitude of most of the elements is variable, provided
that the direction of maximum radiation (beam direction) and pattern shape along with the
side lobes is controlled, is called as phased array.
 Suppose the array gives maximum radiation in direction 𝜙 = 𝜙0 where 0 ≤ 𝜙0 ≤ 180°, then
the phase shift that must be controlled can be obtained as follows.

𝜓 = 𝑘𝑑 cos 𝜙 + 𝛼|𝜙=𝜙0 = 0 -------- (3.58)

 Thus from Eqn. (3.58), it is clear that the maximum radiation can be achieved in any direction
if the progressive phase difference between the elements is controlled. The electronic phased
array operates on the same principle.
 Consider a three element array as shown in the Fig. 3-11. The element of array is considered
as 𝜆/2 dipole. All the cables used are of same length. All the three cables are brought together
at common feed point. Here mechanical switches are used. Such switch is installed one at each
antenna and one at a common feed point.
 All the switches are ganged together. Thus by operating switch, the beam can be shifted to any
phase shift.
 To make operation reliable and simple, the ganged mechanical switch is replaced by PIN
dipole which acts as electronic switch. But for precision in results, the number of cables
should be minimised.
 21

Fig. 3-11 Phased array with mechanical switches at elements and feed point

 To make operation reliable and simple, the ganged mechanical switch is replaced by PIN
dipole which acts as electronic switch. But for precision in results, the number of cables
should be minimised.
 In many applications phase shifter is used instead of controlling phase by switching cables. It
can be achieved by using ferrite device. The conducting wires are wrapped around the phase
shifter. The current flowing through these wires controls the magnetic field within ferrite and
then the magnetic field in the ferrite controls the phase shift.
 The phased array for specialized functional utility are recognized by different names such as
frequency scanning array, retroarray and adoptive array.
 The array in which the phase change is controlled by varying the frequency is called
frequency scanning array. This is found to be the simplest phased array as at each element
separate phase control is not necessary. A simple transmission line fed frequency scanning
array as shown in the Fig. 3-12.

Fig. 3-12 Frequency scanning line fed phased array.

 Each element of the scanning array is fed by a transmission line via directional coupler. Note
that the directional couplers are fixed in position, while the beam scanning is done with a
 22

frequency change. To avoid reflections and to obtain pure form of the travelling wave, the
transmission line is properly terminated of the load.
 The main advantage of the frequency scaning array is that there are no moving parts and no
switches and phase shifters are required.
 The array which automatically reflects an incoming signal back to the source is called
retroarray. It acts as a retroreflector similar to the passive square corner reflector. That
means the wave incident on the array is received and transmitted back in the same direction.
 In other words, each element of the retroarray reradiates signal which is actually the
conjugate of the received one. Simplest form of the retroarray is the Van Atta array as X
shown in the Fig. 3-13 in which 8 identical dipole elements are used, with pairs formed
between elements l and 8, 2 and 7, 3 and 6, 4 and 5 using cables of equal length. If the wave
arrives at angle say , then it gets transmitted in the same direction.

Fig. 3.15 Van Atta retorarray

 An array which automatically turn the maximum beam in the desired direction while turn the
null in the undesired direction is called adoptive array. The adpotive array adjust itself in the
desired direction with awareness of its enviomment.
 In modem adoptive arrays, the output of each element in the array is sampled, digitized and
then processed using computers. Such arrays are commonly called smart antennas.

BASIC PRINCIPLE OF ANTENNA SYNTHESIS - (BINOMIAL ARRAY)

 In case of uniform linear array, to increase the directivity, the array length has to be
increased. But when the array length increases, the secondary or side lobes appear in the
pattern. In some of the special applications, it is desired to have single main lobe with no
minor lobes.
 That means the minor lobes should be eliminated completely or reduced to minimum level as
compared to main lobe. To achieve such pattern, the array is arranged in such away that the
broad side array radiate more strongly at the centre than that from edges.
 To reduce the side lobe level, John Stone proposed that sources have amplitudes proportional
to the coefficients of a binomial series of the form ;
 23

-------- (3.59)

where 𝑚 is the number of radiating sources in the array.

Binomial array is an array whose elements are excited according to the current levels
determined by the binomial coefficient.
 The positive cooefficients of the series expansion for different values of 𝑚 are ;

-------- (3.60)
 The above represents Pascal’s triangle. If the values of 𝑚 are used to represent the number of
elements of the array, then the coefficients of the expansion represent the relative amplitudes
of the elements. Since the coefficients are determined from a binomial series expansion, the
array is known as binomial array.

Nonuniform amplitude arrays of even and odd number of elements:

 Assuming that the amplitude excitation is symmetrical about the origin, the array factor for a
nonuniform amplitude array can be written as ;

-------- (3.61)

where 𝑎𝑛’s are the excitation coefficients of the array elements.

 From Eqn’s (3.60) and (3.61) , the amplitude coefficients for the following arrays are:
 24

 Binomial array’s do not exhibit any minor lobes provided the spacing between the elements is
equal or less than one-half of a wavelength.
 The design using a 𝜆/2 spacing leads to a pattern with no minor lobes, the half-power
beamwidth and maximum directivity for 𝑑 = 𝜆/2 spacing in terms of the numbers of
elements or the length of the array are given by ;
0.75
𝐻𝑃𝐵𝑊 (𝑑 = 𝜆/2) ≈ -------- (3.62)
√𝐿/𝜆
𝐷𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1.77√1 + 2𝐿/𝜆 -------- (3.63)

 The advantages of binomial array is that there are no side lobes in the resultant pattern. The
disadvantages are i. Beam width of the main lobe is large which is undesirable ii. Directivity
is small and high excitation levels are required for the center elements of large arrays.
Yagi Arrays:
Yagi Uda Antenna:
Yagi-Uda arrays or Yagi-Uda antennas are high gain antennas. The antenna was first invented by a
Japanese Prof. S. Uda in early 1940's and described in English by Prof. H. Yagi. Hence the antenna
name Yagi-Uda antenna was given after Prof. S. Uda and Prof. H. Yagi. A basic Yagi-Uda
antenna consists a driven element, one reflector and one or more directors. Basically it is an array of one
driven element and one of more parasitic elements. The driven element is a folded dipole made of a
metallic rod which is excited.
A Yagi-Uda antenna uses both the reflector (𝑅) and the director (𝐷) elements in same antenna.The
element at the back side of the driven element is the reflector. It is of the larger length compared with
remaining elements. The element in front of the driven element is the director which is of lowest length.
Directors and reflector are called parasitic elements. All the elements are placed parallel and close to
each other as shown in Fig. 1. The length of the folded dipole is about 𝜆/2 and it is at resonance. Length
of the director is less than 𝜆/2 and length of the reflector is greater than 𝜆/2.
The parasitic element receive excitation through the induced e.m.f. as current flows in the driven
element.The phase and amplitude of the currents through the parasitic elements mainly depends on the
length of the elements and spacing between the elements. To vary reactance of any element, the
dimensions of the elements are readjusted. Generally the spacing between the driven and the parasitic
elements is kept nearly 0.1 𝜆 to 0.15 𝜆.
 25

Working of Yagi Antenna:

The parasitic element is used either to direct or to reflect, the radiated energy forming compact
directional antenna. If the parasitic element is greater than length 𝜆/2, (i.e. reflector) then it is inductive
in nature. Hence the phase of the current in such element lags the induced voltage.If the parasitic element
is less than resonant length 𝜆/2 (i.e. director), then it is capacitive in nature.
Hence the current in director leads the induced voltage.The directors adds the fields of the driven
element in the direction away from the driven element. If more than one directors are used, then each
director will excite the next.To increase the gain of the Yagi-Uda antenna, the number of directors is
increased in the beam direction.
To get good excitation, the elements are closely spaced.The driven element radiates from front to rear
(i.e., from reflector to director). Part of this radiation induces currents in the parasitic elements which
reradiate almost all radiations. With the proper lengths of the parasitic elements and the spacing between
the elements, the backward radiation is cancelled and the radiated energy is added in front.

Yagi Antenna Radiation Pattern:

 26

Applications of Yagi Antenna:

 Yagi-Uda array is the most popular antenna for the reception of terrestrial television signals in
the VHF band (30 MHz-300 MHz).

 The array for this application is constructed using aluminium pipes.

 The driven element is usually a folded dipole, which gives four times the impedance of a
standard dipole.

 Thus, a two-wire balanced transmission line having a characteristic impedance of 300 𝛺 can be
directlyconnected to the input terminals of the Yagi-Uda array.

 Yagi-Uda arrays have been used in the HF, VHF, UHF, and microwave frequency bands.
Post – MCQ:
1. The antenna array is defined as the system of similar antennas directed to get required -
----------------- in the desired direction.
(a) High gain
(b) High directivity
(c) High bandwidth
(d) All of the above
Answer - d

2. Find the odd element out –

(a) Broadside array
(b) End fire array
(c) Co-linear array
(d) Yagi array
Answer - d

3. The Broadside array is defined as an array having maximum radiation-------------------- the

axis array
a) Perpendicular to
b) Along
c) Parallel
d) None of the above
Answer - a

4. The collinear array is also called as –

(a) Broadcast array
(b) Broad fire array
(c) Omni directional array
(d) All of the above
Answer - a

5. The End fire array is defined as an array having maximum radiation-------------------- the
axis array
a) Perpendicular to
b) Along
c) Parallel
d) None of the above
Answer - b
 6. An array is said to be uniform array if the array elements are fed with –
(a) Equal amplitudes and any phase shift
(b) Equal amplitudes and uniform progressive phase shift
(c) Unequal amplitudes and any phase shift
(d) None of the above
Answer - b

7. In a broadside array, the direction of maximum radiations indicated by –

(a) 0 and 180 degrees
(b) 90 and 270 degrees
(c) 90 and 180 degrees
(d) None of the above
Answer -b

8. In a End fire array, the direction of minimum radiations indicated by –

(a) 0 and 180 degrees
(b) 90 and 270 degrees
(c) 90 and 180 degrees
(d) None of the above
Answer - b

9. The relation between directivity and the array factor length is given by –
(a) D = 2 (L/ƛ)
(b) D = 3(L/ƛ)
(c) D = 4(l/ƛ)
(d) None of the above
Answer - c

10. In a phase array, the maximum radiation in any direction can be obtained by controlling
------------------ excitation in each element.
(a) Angle
(b) Phase
(c) Amplitude
(d) None of the above
Answer - b

11. The Adaptive array is an array which turns the --------------beam in the desired direction
and ----------in the undesired direction.
(a) Minimum and maximum
(b) Maximum and zero
(c) Maximum and minimum
(d) None of the above
Answer - b

12. The frequency scanning array is an array in which phase change can be controlled by
Varying the –

(a) Phase
(b) Frequency
(c) amplitude
(d) Any of the above
Answer -b

13. The array in which the incoming signal received and sent back in the same direction is
called as-
(a) End fire array
(b) Frequency scanning array
(c) Van Atta array
(d) None of the above
Answer - c

14. Binomial array is an array whose elements are excited according to the current
levels determined by the –
(a) binomial coefficients
(b) binary coefficients
(c) integer coefficients
(d) All of the above
Answer - a

15. The important characteristic of a binomial array is –

(a) Small beam width
(b) High directivity
(c) No side lobes
(d) All of the above
Answer - c
Conclusion:
At the end of the topic, students will be able –

1) To understand the basic concept of Antenna Arrays and their radiation

characteristics.

2) To understand the principle of types of Antenna arrays

3) To get exposure to different types like Broadside array and End fire arrays etc

4) To know the applications of Antenna arrays – example Yagi uda array

References:
1. John D Kraus,” Antennas for all Applications”, 4th Edition, McGraw Hill, 2010.

2. R.E. Collin,” Antennas and Radio wave Propagation”, McGraw Hill 1985.

3. Constantine.A. Balanis “Antenna Theory Analysis and Design”, Wiley Student Edition, 4 th
Edition 2016.

4. Rajeswari Chatterjee, “Antenna Theory and Practice” Revised Second Edition New Age
International Publishers, 2006.

Assignments:
1. Explain the working principle of Broadside antenna array and derive an expression for
the resultant electric field.

2. Explain the working principle of End fire antenna array and derive an expression for the
resultant electric field

3. Derive an expression for electric field intensity of an array of N - isotropic sources of (i)
Equal amplitude and same phase (ii) Equal amplitude and opposite phase.

4. Write a short note on antenna arrays.

5. Differentiate between BSA and EFA.