Broadband Characterization of Transient Antennas

The application of pulsed power to transient RF/microwave generation for warhead/projectile payloads is currently a significant research area. In this application, traditional fixed antenna designs have two major drawbacks: the size required for efficient radiation can be prohibitive for frequencies much less than 1 GHz, and the fixed antenna can make the device vulnerable to electromagnetic counterattack. One frequently proposed solution to both issues is the use of transient antennas. To effectively integrate these devices, the various types of transient antennas must be characterized over a wide frequency band during their transient formation period. A testing method being developed at the Center for Pulsed Power and Power Electronics at Texas Tech University utilizing a broadband transmitter and receiver is described.