John M. Harman and Raymond D. Jennings

Abstract: Measured analog data showing gain as a function of angle away from the mainbeam (maximum gain) axis have been obtained for 22 types of reflector antennas designed for operation at 4 GHz for reception and 6 GHz for transmission. The antennas ranged in size from 2.8 m to 13.0 m and represented six United States manufacturers. The analog patterns have been converted to sets of digital data pairs (gain and angle) to facilitate analysis. The data then have been analyzed following techniques recommended by the CCIR for antennas for earth stations in the Fixed-Satellite Service to develop statistical characterizations of gain versus angle for the sidelobe regions. The digitization and analysis techniques are discussed and statistical results are provided t along with some background material from the perspectives of the CCIR, the FCC, and antenna manufacturers.

Keywords: antenna gain patterns; antenna sidelobe gain characteristics; earth station antenna gain; orbit spacing; reference antenna patterns; reference radiation diagrams; statistical antenna gain patterns

Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.

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