The near field of omnidirectional helical antennas

The close near field of helical antennas, radiators widely used in connection with two-way portable communication equipment, is investigated theoretically and experimentally. The investigation has been motivated by safety related considerations. A simplified mathematical model for the radiation from helical antennas with a large number of turns is derived. The near E-field intensity obtained from the theoretical model is compared to the values measured using an accurate E-field probe. The agreement between experimental and theoretical values is excellent. The results show that there is a substantial buildup of static-type electric energy in the close vicinity of helical antennas. The intensity of these electric fields in the vicinity of a helical radiator depends essentially on the Q factor of the antenna. For one experimental helix the far-field power density equivalent (|E|²/377) of the electric field at 1-cm distance from the radiator exceeds some proposed safety standards for less than 250-µW radiated power. These values are in complete agreement with the results of previous studies which showed that helical radiators are very ineffective in depositing electromagnetic energy into simulated muscle tissue located in the close vicinity of the antenna. If safety standards of independent or government agencies do not take into account the peculiar nature of the electromagnetic energy in the close vicinity of some radiating devices, it is conceivable that the power of portable two-way communication equipment might be forced down to useless levels.