Date of Award

12-1990

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering

Department

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

First Advisor

Harry Barksdale, Major, USAF

Abstract

Much time and effort has been applied to accurately model aperture- fed stacked patch microstrip antennas at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT). The results of this study provide AFIT with the capability to fabricate and measure these antennas for comparison of measured radiation characteristics to the predicted characteristics. Basic microstrip patch antenna theory is reviewed, as well as the motivation leading to the development of aperture-fed stacked patch microstrip antennas. The fabrication process used to produce the two antennas manufactured for this study is described in detail. The construction of a small anechoic chamber for pattern measurements is discussed, and measurements of the return loss, VSWR, input impedance, and principal plane radiation patterns for the two antennas of this study are provided. Although the two fabricated antennas did not operate optimally due to under cutting during the etching process, the measurement results show the broader bandwidth characteristic of the stacked patch design. The results of this study are most useful as a guide to researchers starting an active microstrip patch antenna investigation.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GE-ENG-90D-61

DTIC Accession Number

ADA230531

Comments

The author's Vita page is omitted

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