The Antenna as a Transducer: Simple Circuit and Electromagnetic Models

Antennas are key elements in electrical engineering. They are the first and most essential parts of a communication/radar system, and basic instruments for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests and measurements. A good design for a transmitting or receiving antenna system or array may reduce the installation and operating costs more than 30-50%. Moreover (up to a certain extent), noise and interference may be eliminated at the front end of the receivers. A communication or radar antenna system basically covers narrow operating bands and operates in the far field. On the other hand, EMC antennas operate over broad bands and use near fields. This tutorial aims to discuss some aspects of these very well-known devices that are often neglected or forgotten, because of their simplicity.