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  • Author Author: tariq.ahmad
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Antennas Part I: Exploring the Fundamentals of Antennas -- DC to Daylight 23

I've always taken an interest in antennas and radio wave propagation. However, I've never spent the time to understand how the wiggling of electrons in a wire can produce RF radiation. So in this theory-based episode we touch on antenna physics, show how a dipole antenna radiates RF and we demonstrate how that RF behaves with a receive antenna. Of course where I need some help - we call in an expert, Sterling Mann who works in the field of RF. In the next application-based episode, we'll build our own antenna and use it to communicate around the globe.

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  • in reply to DAB

    Interesting. It's always a balance of how far down the rabbit hole. I always ask, do I stop at a cursory look at the equations, or do I run through an example... Like you said, I was a bit ambitious with this one - and we had to split it into two videos, which I'm hesitant to do as some folks might not come back around. 

  • You were clearly ambitious thinking you can explain RF in two short videos.

    If you really want a challenge, try to explain how you can rip an electron from an atom, especially Hydrogen, without destroying the integrity of the atom.

    I contend, that ALL charge flow is accomplished by the exchange of photons between atoms. All of your electronic equations remain the same, but you maintain the integrity of the atoms involved.

  • in reply to charlieo21

    I had a miserable time with EM and antenna courses. It is a tough subject and the two profs I had were incomprehensible. I would recommend that you scout the prof before signing up for a course - check out if previous students think the prof made the subject understandable.

  • in reply to charlieo21

    I regret not taking one either. Fortunately a lot of the black magic is done in software now and doesn't require the grey beard of experience. If you want to mess around with free software, check out mmana-gal or EZNEC Pro2 v7 which was recently open sourced.

  • I really regret not taking an antenna course in college, I think antennas are really cool devices and sometimes they can look like some kind of black magic.

  • It's difficult to tell from my blank expression, but I was ecstatic to speak with Sterling about advanced RF topics. If you want to learn a little bit more, then be sure sure to check out the full conversation above (and you also get to see more of my messy office)!

    My first DIY antenna project was a 3 element yagi made from a broomstick and the metal headliner bows yanked from my '74 VW - all in an unsuccessful effort to contact the space station MIR. Those days, and that antenna are long gone, but I still love satellites and making antennas.

    Got a cool antenna project or story that you want to share? Post pics below and tell me about it!

    -Derek