Unit name | Antennas |
---|---|
Unit code | EENG35010 |
Credit points | 10 |
Level of study | H/6 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
Unit director | Dr. Hilton |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites | |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering |
Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
The antenna is an integral part of any wireless communications system. This unit predominantly considers intentional radiators (i.e. antennas), though also provides a basis for analysis of unintentional electromagnetic radiation (i.e. potential sources of interference). The first part of the unit concentrates on defining, and practical measurement of, antenna characteristics. Antenna array theory is then developed to show how the antennas radiation pattern can be shaped and steered. The application and design of some of the wide variety of antenna configurations is considered, with examples given of practical antennas (dipoles, slots, arrays, reflectors). It is also important to show how the antenna is integrated with feed-lines and RF circuitry. This area is covered in lectures and reinforced through a design exercise where students have to specify antenna and RF component requirements for a satellite communications system downlink.
Elements:
Antenna Characteristics: Input & transmissions responses (radiation patterns & polarisation), gain, directivity, efficiency.
Magnetic & Electric Dipoles: Basic sources, diffraction and ground plane effects.
Aperture Antennas: Waveguide horns, reflector antennas
Printed Antennas: Dipoles, slots, loops, microstrip patch antennas
Antenna Arrays: Array theory, beam-shaping, beam-steering, pattern synthesis, mutual coupling, n-port networks
Antenna Systems: Matching, noise temperature, G/T, C/N
Baluns: Reasons for use, different implementations, suppression of unintentional radiation
Antenna Design Exercise For a satellite communications system
Blackboard progress tests (weigthing 0%): short quizzes to assess student progress and give feedback.
By the end of the unit, students should be:
Lectures
Name: Design Exercise
Type: Homework
% of final coursework: 10
Description: Write a system specification document
Name: Terminal Exam
Type: Exam
% of final mark: 90
Description: 2 hour written paper