Simulation and Optimal Design of a Monofliar Helix Antenna for 1420 MHz

Abstract

The paper addresses simulation and fabrication technique to optimize a monofliar Helix antenna. A conducting wire in form of screw threads forms a Helix. Helix antenna is used in the field of space sciences due to its high directivity and gain. This paper optimizes the performance of a monofliar Helix antenna which is used as a feed at a frequency of 1420 MHz to study hydrogen line spectrum. This antenna can be used as a feed at frequency of 1420MHz. The theoretical simulations of helix are carried out using Numerical Electromagnetic Code, Version 2 software which is numeric code based on method of moments. Helix antenna is fabricated and optimized to a beam width ranging from 70-80°. Radiation properties, including far-field patterns, gain, axial ratio, VSWR, return loss are computed for frequency of 1420 MHz. All theoretical studies of helix antenna are carried out using NEC-2 (Numerical Electromagnetic Code, Version 2.0) software, which is a numerical code based on the method of moments. The measurements conducted in paper were limited to far-field patterns only. The helix with low fabrication cost makes this antenna very attractive to mobile and satellite communications and aerospace applications.