Compact Wideband Direction-Finding Antenna

Abstract

In this paper, we describe a compact, wideband (70-3000 MHz), and high-gain antenna technology that can replace multiple types of antennas currently in use to cover the wide frequency band. The design eliminates the frequency-band breaks associated with the use of multiple arrays. The wideband direction-finding array (with a height of 5.5 in and a diameter of 15.5 in) is the result of end-to-end integration of the antenna array with the receivers presently used, or to be used, on platforms of interest. Development of the wide-bandwidth direction-finding antenna array is described, and computer simulations of its performance are presented. The wideband direction-finding antenna system has been verified on the receiver manufacturer's outdoor test range.