Quad-ridge dual polarized antenna for use in the 2–32GHz band

Abstract

Ridge horn have been utilized in antenna test ranges for different measurement applications for many years. These horns offer stable performance on a bandwidth that can exceed 16:1 as reported in [1-2]. The quad-ridge horn offer dual polarization in the same horn but often at the expense of bandwidth [1]. The open boundary horn concept investigated in [3] is preferred since it avoid the frequency dependent influence of the horn walls that often lead to pattern deformation. The design task is often a compromise between pattern shape, matching and polarization purity but also mechanical issues needs to be considered to arrive at a robust design with repeatable and stable performance. This paper describes the design of a 2-32GHz dual polarized quad ridge horn with a 16:1 bandwidth with high polarization purity.