IEEE EMCS Chapter Meeting: Basic Concepts of Antenna Characterization and Applications for EMC Measurements

Basic Concepts of Antenna Characterization and Applications for EMC Measurements

Schedule:

• Meeting 10:00 AM ET
• Lab Tour 11:00 AM ET
• Lunch 12:00 PM ET

Topic:

Basic Concepts of Antenna Characterization and Applications for EMC Measurements

Abstract: 

There are some practical considerations for antennas used for EMC measurements; for example, EMC antennas are typically extremely broadband and low gain. At below 1 GHz, these antennas are used over a perfect electrical conductor (PEC) ground plane. This presentation provides an introduction and discussion of the antenna fundamental parameters from an application point of view, especially on how these antenna parameters are characterized and applied in EMC applications. We will review the definition of Antenna Factor (AF), its relationship to antenna gains, and mismatch losses. We will also look at other parameters often used in EMC applications, such as antenna balance, phase center, and site attenuation. A brief introduction to EMC antenna calibration methods will be provided, including a reference to dipole-like antennas, which are ubiquitous for EMC measurements below 1 GHz. Finally, we will discuss how these antenna parameters, such as the free-space antenna factors, are impacted by the presence of the conducting ground plane.

Speaker:

Zhong Chen, Director of RF Engineering, ETS-Lindgren, Cedar Park, TX

Zhong Chen is the Director of RF Engineering with ETS-Lindgren, located in Cedar Park, Texas.  He has over 25 years of experience in RF testing, anechoic chamber design, as well as antenna and EMC field probe design and measurements.  He is a past member of the Antenna Measurement Techniques Association (AMTA) Board of Directors and is currently a member of the IEEE EMC Society Board of Directors. Mr. Chen is the Chair of Subcommittee 1 of ANSC C63, which is responsible for EMC antenna calibration and test site validation standards.  He is also chair of the IEEE Standard 1309 committee responsible for developing calibration standards for field probes, and IEEE Standard 1128 for absorber measurements.  He has served as a Distinguished Lecturer for the IEEE EMC Society. His research interests include measurement uncertainty, time domain measurements, and development of novel RF absorber materials.   Mr. Chen received his M.S.E.E. degree in Electromagnetics from the Ohio State University at Columbus.

Sponsors:  

ETS-Lindgren

Washington Laboratories