Investigation of the Rudimentary Horn

Abstract : The performance of a novel type of antenna named the Rudimentary Horn has been investigated both theoretically and experimentally. Detailed experimental investigation of the VSWR properties as well as the radiation characteristics of the antenna has been carried out over the frequency range 1- 10 GHz. Over this band of frequencies the antenna has been found to maintain its desirable impedance and radiation characteristics. A first order theory has been developed for the radiation field produced by a symmetrical rudimentary horn having exponentially curved radiating elements. Fair agreement has been obtained between theory and experiment for the H-plane radiation patterns. Further improvement of the theory is desirable. The rudimentary horn is found to be a broadband linearly polarized antenna. Its cross-polarization response in the direction of the main beam maximum is at least 30 dB down. The effects of the variation of the different physical parameters on the performance of the antenna are given. General design considerations are also given. Possible applications of the rudimentary horn are also discussed. In particular, it has been found that in all aspects of electrical performance the rudimentary horn is competitive with commonly used antennas for HF long range communication. (Author)