Antenna selection guidelines

Antenna selection guidelines

The choice of antenna is very important for a transmitting - receiving communication system. The antenna must be able to radiate or receive

efficiently so the power supplied is not wasted. This application note describes the most important parameters to consider when deciding, what kind of antenna to use in a short range device application.

The antenna is a very important component of communication systems. By definition, an antenna is a device used to transform an RF signal, traveling on a conductor, into an electromagnetic wave in free space (transmit mode), and to transform an RF electromagnetic wave into an electrical signal (receive mode).

Antenna performance parameters and the language used to describe antennas can be confusing and sometimes even misleading. While much can be said in general about what constitutes a good antenna, most designs reflect some sort of compromise or tradeoff between the various desirable attributes because antenna design involves conflicting goals.

Therefore, it is crucial that antenna specifications are reviewed in light of the intended application. A more complete and accurate understanding

of the terminology associated with antennas allows the most appropriate antenna for a given task to be specified. A great deal of effort has been made over the years to standardize antenna terminology.