Assessing the Feasibility of Using an Ultra-Wideband Two-Start Fractal Antenna for Radio Monitoring

Introduction. Modern radio monitoring systems require antennas with a wide operating frequency range. One possible solution is the use of two-start fractal antennas. The present work is aimed at assessing the prospects of using such a design in radio monitoring applications.
Aim. To assess the possibility of using a super-wideband two-input fractal antenna with a matching device located on a movable metal platform for radio monitoring tasks in the frequency range of 0.3…10.0 GHz.
Materials and methods. The antenna was designed and its input characteristics were determined using the electrodynamic modeling method of moments. To simulate the presence of a metal mounting structure, a metal screen was used during the modeling and experimental stages. The characteristics of the antenna were measured using a Keysigt E5063A vector network analyzer. The distance to the screen during both the modeling and experimental stages was 130, 260, 310 and 660 mm.
Results. The conducted computer modeling found that the screen causes significant fluctuations in the input characteristics of the fractal antenna, while increasing the antenna gain. The antenna forms a multi-beam radiation pattern. Measurements of the standing wave ratio showed acceptable matching throughout the frequency range. Conclusion. An ultra-wideband fractal antenna with a matching device located on a movable metal platform can be used for radio monitoring. To ensure optimal matching with the excitation path, the distance between the antenna and the metal structure should be selected within the range of 260…310 mm.

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