When it comes to networks that use microwaves, a crucial element that is never absent is the microwave antenna. There are essentially different types of microwave antennas. Whatever mechanical and electrical requirements that you may have, always remember that most antenna types can meet them. If you need an antenna for terrestrial microwave network purposes, then the parabolic antenna is one of your best options. Some types of antennas are not commonly used among microwave networks too. Examples of these antennas include the flat panel, sector, horn, Yagi, and dielectric lens. For each type of antenna, they offer certain features that make them the most suitable choice for particular situations and systems. For those wanting to know your options of the Antenna Manufacturer, make sure to read what follows next.
As just stated, a common kind of microwave antenna is the parabolic antenna. You will also be coming across two kinds of parabolic antennas. These two classifications are called the standard performance parabolic antenna and the high-performance variant. Spun from an aluminum sheet is the parabolic shaped reflector that is an important element in a standard parabolic microwave antenna. This particular shape ensures that the energy focuses at the focal point of the antenna. This particular antenna helps to focus the signal more on a narrow beam. Unlike other antennas, the Tactical Antennas have high gain from its narrow beamwidth. These antennas are most commonly used for networks that don’t entail the use of a high degree of F/B ratio and sidelobe suppression.
High-performance parabolic microwave antennas, on the other hand, use a shroud to enhance the front to back ratio of the antenna and its sidelobe performance. This shroud is also called a shield or a drug for its physical appearance. An absorber material called a low-density foam is used to internally line the shroud. This particular material helps to minimize reflections and absorb particular RF frequency signals better. With this high-performance design, side lobes are reduced, allowing antennas to satisfy more specific pattern requirements to reduce interference.
Going beyond high-performance microwave antennas, you also have other antenna designs like the super high-performance or ultra-high performance antennas. To get a slightly elevated performance of pattern, there are modifications introduced into the feed system and antenna. Using more absorber material is expected for this. These antennas are vital for congested areas where there is a high link density observed.
You also have the hub or sector antennas that make up another variant of microwave antennas. These antennas are essentially created to offer a segmented type of coverage pattern over specific areas. These antennas are most commonly used for cellular communication system applications. For WAN, ISM, and WLL systems that use fixed wireless access when it comes to their networks, these antennas are also used. Learn more about microwave transmission here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microwave_transmission.
