Antenna testing is an important aspect of ensuring reliable communication for a wide range of applications. Whether you are testing a newly implemented antenna or troubleshooting an existing one, it is an important part of building a communication.
Antennas are critical components of communication system enabling the transmission and reception of signals over long distances. To ensure, reliable performance, antenna testing is essential.
What Is Antenna Testing?
Antenna testing basically involves measuring the performance characteristics of an antenna. This test typically evaluates the antenna’s radiation pattern, impedance, bandwidth, gain and other important parameters.
These provide important information regarding the performance of antennas and help engineers to optimize and build a device compatible as per specific needs.
Why Antenna Testing Is Important?
As discussed above, antennas play an important role in building a strong and reliable communication system, hence, to ensure that antennas made are fulfilling their intended needs antenna testing is an important aspect of developing an uninterrupted communication system.
It is essential to have properly functioning antennas that can receive and transmit signals with clarity and consistency. There are variable methods used for testing antennas.
Types Of Antenna Testing
There are several methods of antenna testing, depends upon the purpose of its need and use. However, some of the most common types of antenna testing are:
Near – Field Testing.
It is type of testing that is used to measure the antenna’s performance in the closed electromagnetic field near its installation. This type of testing is usually carried out to identify any potential issues with the design or construction of the antenna.
Far – Field Testing.
As specified by the name, this type of testing is carried out to measure the antenna’s performance in the electromagnetic field at certain distance.
It is used to evaluate performance, gain, radiation pattern and directivity of antenna. This test is usually carried out in an open environment or in a large indoor environment.
Radiated Emission Testing.
These are the type of antenna testing that is used to measure the number of electromagnetic radiations emitted by the antenna. This test is carried to evaluate that whether the antenna is emitting accurate amount of radiation or not.
Because if it is emitting excessive levels of radiations than it could interfere with signals emitting from other electronic devices.
Compact Range Testing.
It is a type of far- field testing that uses a reflector to create a quiet zone in which the performance of antenna is being analyzed.
Environmental Testing.
It is the type of antenna testing in which the performance of antenna is being tested under certain environmental conditions.
This test is carried out to make sure that the performance of antenna is not interrupted by extreme and harsh weather conditions, such as, temperature, humidity, and other environmental conditions.
Conclusion
Antenna testing is an important aspect of communication technology. It is essential for ensuring optimal performance and meeting specified needs.
There are several methods and testing patterns used for antenna testing. By testing earlier in the design and manufacturing procedure engineers can ensure that they meet the specific guidelines and fulfill the requirements as expected.
