cT60 Introduction to Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 1 Chapter 1 Introduction to Microwaves 1.1 Microwaves - Part of Everyday Life To many people microwaves are only used by one piece of equipment and that is found in a kitchen - the microwave oven! In reality, microwaves play a muich greater part in our day to day lives than most people actually realize. Figure 1 When you make a long distance telephone call, or tune in fo your favorite television show, microwaves are being used 10 help you do that LJ Technical Systems 1Introduction to Microwaves CT60 Chapter 1 Laboratory Manual Hundreds of satellites circle the carth and each one has a specific task - to exchange information many millions of times a day between itself and microwave transmitters'and receivers on the carth. Satellites are used for satellite TV, data transmission, global positioning, transmission of infra-red and visible light pictures for weather forecasting, as well as forming part of the world wide telephone network. Mobile telephones use microwaves to transmit and receive from the local hub. ‘This is sometimes called cellular mobile radio telephony. RADAR (RAdio Detection And Ranging) is used by shipping in our busy sea- lanes; aircraft and air traffic control use Radar to determine position information. Radat is also used for military purposes (for which it was first developed during World War Tl, Meteorologists use Radar Systems and Satellite Communications to detect and track weather systems around the globe. Microwaves are used in aeronautics to determine the altitude of aircraft. This works in a similar way to Radar by measuring the time taken for a transmitted pulse to be reflected back. Microwaves are electromagnetic waves that have very high frequencies and very short wavelengths, The phenomena of microwaves are as old as the eatly history of radio, yet the number of potential uses for microwaves is vast. The major area of microwave research and development today is in radar ancl guided missile telemetering applications. Microwaves are also used extensively in satellite programs and private industry, Additional uses include television, telephone and teletype applications. Microwaves have gained new prominence in the field of voice transmission. Microwave relay links have been developed and which are more convenient and, in some cases, more economical than using telephone lines. In the future, microwave relay links could eventually replace the enormous network system of telephone lines and poles. This training program has been designed to introduce you to the fundamental concepts of microwaves and to help you understand their applications in modern ‘Communication Systems. 2 LJ Technical SystemsCT60 Introduction to Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 1 1.2 Electromagnetic Waves . Microwaves belong to the family of electromagnetic waves. ‘An electromagnetic wave consists ofa disturbance in the form of varying electrical and magnetic fields. No transmission medium is necessary, and they travel more easily in a vacuum than through matter. Radio signals, microwaves, light and X-rays are all types of electromagnetic waves. | electromagnetic waves being radiated, \ yy transmitting ~ 7 / / | radio antenna antenna | receiving signal radiation | Figuee 2 - Examples of Electromagnetic Waves LJ Technical SystemsIntroduction to Microwaves CT60 Chapter 1 Laboratory Manual 1.3. Microwave Frequent : Within the spectrum of all electromagnetic waves, frequencies starting at approximately 300 megahertz (3 x 10° Hz), corresponding 10 wavelengths below I meter, are considered to be the beginning of the microwave range. ‘The upper limit of the microwave range is generally considered to be approximately 30 gigahertz (3 x 10'° Hz), corresponding to a wavelength of about lcm, The diagram below shows where the microwave range fits into the overall spectrum of electromagnetic waves. We aa) Radio Waves Microwaves Fregueney Hen) Wioeleng (steies) Figure 3 - The Electromagnetic Spectrum LJ Technical SystemsCT60 Introduction to Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 1 PH seuaent Assessment 1 1, Which of the following does not involve the use of microwaves? [a] Satellite TV. [B] Mobile telephones. (Radar, [a] X-tay photography. 2. The microwave frequency range is generally considered to be: [a] 30 kilohertz to 3 megahertz [b] 3 megahertz to 300 megahertz [<] 300 megahertz to 30 gigahertz [a] 30 gigahertz to 3 terrahertz 3. Which of the following is not a type of electromagnetic radiation? [a] Light radiation. [b] Sound waves. ¥ [<] Radio waves. [a] X-rays. 4. A wavelength of 1cm corresponds to a frequency of: [a] 30 gigahertz [be] 3 gigahertz: [e] 300 megahertz [@] 30 megahertz Continued. LJ Technical Systems 5 OOO |Introduction to Microwaves CT60 Chapter 1 Laboratory Manual & ‘Student Assessment 1 Continued... 5. Which of the following is an application that involves satellites? Data transmission. (2) — Global positioning. Transmission of pictures for weather forecasting [_ Allof the above, 6. The entire range of frequencies covered by electromagnetic waves is known as the: electromagnetic network. [B] electromagnetic energy scale. electromagnetic spectrum, electromagnetic communication range. Notes: i 4 6 LJ Technical SystemsCT60 Measuring the Microwave Signal Laboratory Manual Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Measuring the Microwave Signal Objectives of this Chapter Items Required for this Chapter LJ Technical Systems Having completed this chapter you will be able to: Identify the terms Radiation Pattern, Beamwidth and Directionality. Investigate the microwave pattern produced, Microwave Communications Base Microwave Transmitter * Microwave Receiver Headphones Power supply extension lead “Microwave Probe (optional)CT60 Measuring the Microwave Signal Laboratory Manual Chapter 2 ality 2.1 Radiation Pattern, Beamwidth and Djres [All waves transmit energy, and microwaves are no exception. When you throw a ‘tone in a pool of water, you ean see the water waves which appear to be moving outwards. This is shown in Figure 4 below Figure 4- Waves on the Susface of a Pool of Water s of electromagnetic waves you may see br feel the energy carried, With some type: ‘and in the form of light for light waves, in the form of heat for infra red radiation, as in Figure 5. : ‘ LJ Technical SystemsCT60 Measuring the Microwave Signal Laboratory Manual Chapter 2 “The waves formed by throwing a stone into a pool of water, or by the light from a light bulb, will radiate equally in all directions so as long as noting blocks them, If we had a light meter and an electric light in an otherwise darkened room, we could measure the light intensity at certain distances and directions from the light bulb. We could then plot the values of equal light intensity on a piece of paper. in i order to provide a plan view of the light bulb and the lines of equal light intensity around it. We could do the same thing using radio waves. If we have a radio transmitter and a radio receiver with its output connected to a meter, we can plot the values of equal signal strength around the transmitter (see Figure 6). a fa equal radiation e N in all directions ; ~N/ i NS vertical dipole 3 Figure 6 - Radiation Pattern from a Vertical Dipate Antenna * ‘This shows the radiation pattern or polar diagram of a vertical dipole antenna : with a fine of equal signal strength around it as scen from above, giving equal radiation in all directions. If we want to broadcast a radio signal to many people who are scattered in all directions around us then this radiation pattern would be ideal. If, however, we only want to communicate to a single receiver, then using a vertical dipole would be wasteful of energy and could also cause unwanted interference to other radio receivers nearby. LJ Technical SystemsMeasuring the Microwave Signal CT60 3 Chapter 2 Laboratory Manual } ‘A much better way would be to direct the radio beam so that it points in just one direction (Figure 7). We say that this beam is directional. 0.707Emax 6——___— > Emax J / 0.707Emax Figure 7 = Directional Radiation Pattern The beamwidth of this cone-shaped beam is shown in Figure 7 as the angle 8. This is the conical angle measured between the points where the electric field intensity falls from its maximum value by 3B. In the following experiment we shall examine the directionality (the directional nature) of the signal from the Microwave Transmitter with its horn antenna. 10 LJ Technical SystemsCT60 Measuring the Microwave Signal Laboratory Manual Chapter 2 2.2 Practical Exercise WL Connect the system as shown in Figure 8. 53, Connest Receiver power pug ta power extension Lea, 2, Connect Transmiter power plug ta base Socket 1, Locate Tansmiter 4, Conacet power inposiion Cand fanonna a +90 ‘exonsion lead 19 degrees. base socket vis Taster 6, Connect heudpones 5, Recaver ini degrees to the Rendpons socket ‘and anton Figure 8 BE Set the transmitter switches and dials as in Figure 9. 2, Set antenna to $90 degree position, ora, ncrouive ygemmicne Tash Figure 9 LJ Technical Systems iLMeasuring the Microwave Signal CT60 Chapter 2 Laboratory Manual WE Set the Receiver switches and dials as in Figure 10. 2. Ser switch 10 sT200 1. Set Receiver MICROWAVE Gain switeh to low. RECEIVER Demodalator. 3. Set Loudspeaker switeh to OF Figure 10 : a a : 12 Set both the Transmitter and Receiver Gain Controls to their midway positions. Connect the Power Supply to the bench power source and switeh it on. The red light on the top of the power supply should tum on. Adjust the Receiver Gain Control until the signal strength meter on the Receiver reads 5. You may also need to adjust the Transmitter Gain Control to achieve this. Put on the headphones and then move the Receiver around the semi-cirewlar line marked on the Baseboard as indicated in Figure \1. LJ Technical Systems ce eee i eee os. CT60 Measuring the Microwave Signal Laboratory Manual Chapter 2 Move the Receiver around the ‘Transmitter on the semi-circular line. Figure 11 You may, be able to hear the tone in all directions, but you should discover that there is one particular direction in which the received signal is strongest ‘i Monitor the signal strength as you move the Receiver either side of the maximum position, By referring back to Figure 7, measure the beamwidth of the Transmitter : using the graduations on the semi-circular line $ f Record the beamwidth of the transmitter in your student warkboo k. : & 22a What is your measurement of the beamwidth? : 80 degrees 50 degrees : 25 degrees 5 degrees : LJ Technical SystemsMeasuring the Microwave Signal CT60 Chapter 2 Laboratory Manual WL Slowly move the Receiver away from the Transmitter, noting as you do so the reading on the Receiver signal strength meter. f Record what happens to the signal strength as the receiver is moved away from the transmitter in your student workbook. 22b As the Receiver is moved off the Baseboard the meter reading: fluctuates. [BE] increases. [g)_ decreases. [a] _ remains the same. We will now investigate the radiation pattern of the Transmitter horn antenna using the Microwave Probe. This probe is less sensitive to clectromagnetic radiation than the Receiver horn antenna, so you will have to incrcase the gain of the Receiver. HI Move the Receiver off the Baseboard, while leaving it connected via the power extension lead. IE Place a large piece of paper on the Baseboard So that you can plot the radiation pattern of the horn antenna, IE Plug the Probe into the socket on the Receiver and set the Receiver Gain switch to high. II Position the Probe in the center of the Baseboard in line with the ‘Transmitter hom, so that the Receiver signal strength is at maximum. HE Adjust the Transmitter and Receiver Gain controls until the signal strength meter on the Receiver reads 5, then move the Probe to the side until the signal strength meter on the Receiver reads |, Now plot all of the points on the paper where the signal strength is | You should have found that the radiation pattern is that of a spreading beam. If time allows, repeat your plot of the radiation pattern for a Signal strength of 2.5 I Switch the power off. 14 LJ Technical Systemsa Ay CT60 Measuring the Microwave Signal Laboratory Manual Chapter 2 DH student ‘Assessment 2 * 1, A diagram showing a pattern of equal radiation strength for an aerial is ealled: [2] _ the electromagnetic spectrum. [B] apolar diagram. aradio diagram. [a] adipole spectrum. 2, The beamwidth of the directional beam shown is defined as: 0,707Emax Emax 0.707Emax the value Emax, the value 0.707 Emax. half of the angle 8. the angle 6. S BHA Aaa jcrowaves can be: radiated equally in all directions by a light bulb. radiated equally in all directions by « horn antenna. radiated in one direction only by a hom antenna. radiated in one ditection only by a vertical dipole antenna, Continued... LJ Technical Systems 15Measuring the Microwave Signal CT60 Chapter 2 Laboratory Manual BD student Assessment 2 Continued... 4. Why would we want to direct radio waves? [2] We want to communicate to many places all around us. To avoid interference to other radio users. To avoid wasting radio energy. [@ Both b and c above, [S.A directional radio beam: ig radiated equally in all directions. points in one direction, contains no energy. has a circular radiation patter. Notes: 16 LJ Technical Systems —a wee ee ee ee eee eee ee eae i i i i i 3 “CT60 Polarization of Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 3 Chapter 3 Polarization of Microwaves Objectives of Having completed this chapter you will be able to: this Chapter M Identify electromagnetic waves and the transverse nature of microwaves. Define the terms Horizontal Plane Polarization and Vertical Plane Polarization. Investigate the transmission and detection of plane polarized microwaves. Items Required Microwave Communications Base this Chapter ., for thi Chap Microwave Transmitter Microwave Receiver Power supply extension lead LJ Technical Systems 7Polarization of Microwaves CT60 Chapter 3 Laboratory Manual 3.1 Transverse Waves eu Itwas mentioned earlier that microwaves belong to the family of electromagnetic waves. Electromagnetic waves are transverse waves. To illustrate what we mean by a transverse wave, consider what happens when the end of a tope is moved up and down, as shown in Figure 12. ‘wave direation| — srasverse wave Figure 12 - A Simple Example of a Transverse Wave Moving the end of the rope up and down causes a wave to travel away from the held end. Since the up and down movement is at right angles (90°) to the direction of travel of the wave, we say that this is a transverse movement. Now consider an electromagnetic wave, such as’ a microwave. An electromagnetic wave contains energy associated with electric and magnetic fields. Each of these fields has a transverse motion, that is to say the electric field and magnetic field are at right-angles to the direction of propagation (travel) of the wave, This is illustrated in Figure 13. 18 LJ Technical Systemswma a CT60 Polarization of Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 3 — (transverse motion) Figure 13 - The Transverse Electric and Magnetic Fields of an Electromagnetic Wave y ‘Gransvere motion) fect ld (@) magti itd (H ‘2 (irwetion of propegnion) 3.2 Polarization ‘The polarization of an electromagnetic wave (such as a microwave) depends on the direction in which the electric field of the wave lies, Note from Figure 13 above that the electric field varies within one plane only (the y-z plane in this example), so we say that the wave is plane-polarized. Two specific cases of plane polarization are vertical plane polarization and horizontal plane polarization. Referring again to the wave shown in Figure 13 above, if the direction of the electric field (the y direction) is vertical (relative to the surface of the Earth), we say that the wave is vertically plane polarized Conversely, if the direction of the electric field is horizontal, the wave is said to be horizontally plane polarized. Plane polarization is of particular interest to us because plane polarized waves are transmitted by microwave antennas and other types of radio antenna used in communication systems, The sloctrieu! fleld generated by a transmitting antenna actually runs parallel to the antenna, while the magnetic Mold Is at right angles to the antenna, LJ Technical Systems 19Polarization of Microwaves CT60 Chapter 3 Laboratory Manual : Since the transmitting radio antenna shown in Figure 14 is vertical, the radio waves transmitted will be vertically’ plane polarized. The radio signal picked up by a receiving antenna will be at a maximum when this antenna is also in the vertical position. the electrical field is vertically plane polarized ‘magnetic field radio aerial ¥ Figure 14 - Generation of a Vertically Plane Polarized Wave In the Transmitter hom antenna of the microwave trainer, vertically plane polarized microwaves are generated by an oscillator and launched into a rectangular metal tube called a waveguide. The waveguide opens into » horn which emits the microwaves into the atmosphere, as shown in Figure 15. 20 LJ Technical SystemsCT60 Polarization of Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 3 waveguide ‘horn Figure 15 - Vertically Plane Polarized Microwaves Transmitted by a Horn Antenna The level of the received microwave signal will be at a maximum when the Receiver hom is correctly aligned with the Transmitter hom, and will be at a minimum when the two hors are 90° out of alignment. ‘This requirement for the Transmitter and Receiver horns to be correctly aligned ‘be investigated in the following practical exercise, we Nw wm ik aa a eee eee ee eee 3 LJ Technical Systems 21’ Polarization of Microwaves cT60 Chapter 3 Laboratory Manual 3.3 Practical Exercise « HE Make sure that the power is switched off. i__ Connect the system as shown in Figure 16. coment geet cme See Peery im \ fetplgtepece Sorta! boar ioe Figure 16 I Set the Transmitter switches and dials as shown in Figure 17. 1. Sel sutea bor to #90 degrees 2.Setywitchto fone generat Figure 17 2 LJ Technical Systems. CT60 Polarization of Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 3 I Set the Receiver switches and’dials as shown in Figure 18. Set both the Transmitter and Receiver Gain Controls to their midway positions, then switch the power on, 1. Setentema bom oOo degrees SS $1200 MICRON 2, Ser Ressiver Gains ov. A RECEIVER ~~. = 3. Setewich io ‘Demodoltor: ——t 4 Set Loudgeaker foe 40 OFF Figure 18 I Adjust the Receiver Gain Control until the signal strength meter on the Receiver reads 2.5. You may also need: to adjust the Transmitter Gain Control to achieve this. I Put on the fieadphones and note how loud thetone is, rotate the Receiver in the vertical plane as shown in Figure 19, while keeping the Receiver horn antenna in line with the Transmitter horn antenna. Note the positions of the maximum and minimum received signal, by listening to the tone from the headphones. f Record the positions of the maximum and minimum received signal in your student workbook. LJ Technical Systems 23 WM a aPoiarization of Microwaves CT60 Chapter 3 . Laboratory Manual 4 Rinse woiSMuve | | UE "RECEIVER YU Figure 19 & 3.3a A minimum reading is obtained when the top side of the Receiver horn (the side that faces upwards when the Receiver is in its normal position): faces upwards or downwards. [B] faces upwards or horizontally away from you. [Ee] _ faces horizontally towards you or horizontally away from you, [a] faces downwards or horizontally towards you. & 3.3b Why do we get a minimum reading at certain positions? : [a] The transmitter is no longer emitting microwaves. [B)__ The receiver is no longer aligned with the plane of polarization, The transmitter is no longer emitting plane polarized waves. (@]__ The wavelength of the microwaves has increased. I Switch the power off. 24 LJ Technical SystemsWa a aaa aa -CT60 Polarization of Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 3 BH student Assessment 3 © 1, Microwaves are: [a] ‘sound waves. {B]__ heat waves. electromagnetic waves. [ad] light waves. 2, Which of the following is not an clectromagnetic wave? [ Xazy. {B] Radio wave. [e] Light wave. [Mechanical wave. 3, Microwaves are: [a] _Jongitudinal in nature. [B) slow in nature. ‘ [] tong in nature, {2 transverso in nature, 4, In an electromagnetic wave, the magnetic field is: (@]__ inthe same plane as the electric field. [E] _atright angles to the electric field. [e]__ inthe direction of propagation. [a only present if the wave is polarized. Continued.. LJ Technical Systems 25Polarization of Microwaves CT60 Chapter 3 Laboratory Manual @D swudent Assessment 3 Continued. c: 5, An electromagnetic wave whose electric field varies in the horizontal plane only is said to be: [a] unpolarized. {B] vertically plane polarized. [e)__ horizontally plane polarized. [d] longitudinally polarized. (a] _atright angles to the antenna. parallel to the antenna, vertical. parallel to the Earth’s surface. Notes: 26 LI Technical Systemsom Pe Ree i CT60 Reflection of Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 4 Chapter. 4 Reflection of Microwaves Objectives of Having completed this chapter you will be able to: this Chapter . Items Required for this Chapter LJ Technical Systems Define the conditions necessary for the reflection of microwaves. Relate the concept of microwave reflection to specific materials. Investigate the reflection of microwave signals. Microwave Communications Base Microwave Transmitter Microwave Receiver 1 narrow metal plate 1 plastic sheet 1 hardboard sheet 1 wide metal plate 1 support bracket with pegs 27Reflection of Microwaves CT60 Chapter 4 Laboratory Manual} 4.1 Microwave Reflection ent ‘As we already know, energy is transmitted by waves. Energy transmitted in wave form is reflected off certain surfaces. For example, the light waves bouncing off you are reflected when you stand in front of a mirror; so you see your own reflection in the mirror. ‘Some materials reflect microwaves better than others. For example, most metals reflect microwaves well, whereas materials such as wood and plastic are poorer reflectors of microwaves. If-a light beam were shone down a hollow, shiny metal tube, the light would bounce off the inner sides of the tube and travel down the tube. You would then see the light emerging at the other end of the tube. When microwaves are transmitted into space, they are free to spread across a wide area. This means that a lot of energy can be lost. ‘One way of ensuring minimum loss of energy in microwave transmission is to send the microwaves down a metal tube. They will bounce off the inner sides of the tube and so will reach their required destination with @ minimum amount of energy loss, as in Figure 20. These metal tubes are called waveguides. Communications engineers need to understand how microwaves are reflected in ‘this way, in order to maintain communication lines. 28 Li Technical Systems“a ik CT60 Reflection of Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 4 4.2. Practical Exercise “. Mm _Locate the Transmitter in position A and the Receiver in position B. Make sure the power leads are connected correctly. Assemble the narrow metal plate (approximately 3.5cm wide) into the support stand, as in Figure 21. ‘Metal plate, |. Locate plate in support bracket. . 2. Lock “Two pegs locate in seta plat. Tyan Figure 27 7 ™ Locate the metal plate in position SAT 3 on the base board. Take care to ensure the metal plate is vertical, m1 Adjust the angle of the Transmitter and Receiver antennas so that they are both directed at SAT 3. Switch on the power. The Gain dial on the Transmitter should be adjusted so that the tone produces a Transmitter meter reading of 5. LI Technical Systems 29’ Reflection of Microwaves CT60 Chapter 4 Laboratory Manual m - Set the Receiver Gain switch to LOW. Set the Receiver Gain dial to its mid position. Make sure the loudspeaker is OFF and the receiver is switched to DEMODULATOR. ™ = Make any fine adjustments necessary to the Transniitter and Receiver antenna positions, in order to get a maximum reading at the Receiver signal strength meter, It may be necessary to adjust the Receiver Gain if the signal is too low or too high. & 42a Even though the Recelver is not directly facing the Transmitter, a signal is being received. Why do you think this is? [a] The microwaves are being reflected by the Baseboard. [b] The microwaves are being reflected by the metal plate. [E]__ The receiver is directly receiving microwaves from the transmitter. [@] | The receiver is faulty. & 4.2b Enter the angle to which you have set the Transmitter antenna, in order that the reflected microwave signal is received by the Receiver. LJ Technical Systems 30VV? Oe VO? YOO VSS DR ne ea Cee ae eee eee) - CT60 Reflection of Microwaves Laboratory Manual Chapter 4 Figure 22 below shows the system you have set up. For maximum reflection the angle of incidence must equal the angle of reflection. ‘Metal reflecting surface Reflected microwave oe Receiver Incident microwave =y Angle of | Angle of incidence | reflection Figure 22, & 42¢ What would happen if the metal plate were moved slightly so that the anglu of iitcidence was no longer the same as the angle of reftection? The strength of the transmitted signal would gradually increase. [BE] The strength of the received signal would decrease. “The strength of the received signal would remain unchanged. ‘The strength of the received signal would increase rapidly. LJ Technical Systems : 31Reflection of Microwaves CT60 Chapter 4 Laboratory Manual ee ae The width of the reflector affects the amount of microwaves reflected, To prove this: “4 With the narrow metal plate still in the SAT 3 position, set the Receiver tain so that the Receiver signal strength meter reads approximately | mM Remove the narrow metal plate from its stand and replace it with the wide metal plate, Locate the wide metal plate in the SAT 3 position. Record the Receiver meter reading in your student workbook. @™ 42d What happened to the reading on the Receiver signal strength meter when the narrow metal plate was replaced with the wide metal plate? It increased greatly. [B]__ Iincreased slightly. [g Itfell to zero. [@]__itdecreased slightly. ‘Try this experiment, which shows that some materials reflect microwaves better than others: x mM Adjust the Receiver gain so that the signal strength meter reads 5 with the wide metal plate being used as the reflector. Remove the wide metal plate from its stand and replace it with the plastic sheet. Locate the plastic sheet in the SAT 3 position. f Record the Receiver meter reading in your student workbook. Remove the plastic sheet from its stand and replace it with the hardboard sheet. ™ Locate the hardboard shect in the SAT 3 position. / Record the Receiver meter reading in your student workbook. Switch the power off. LJ Technical SystemsCT60 Laboratory Manual Reflection of Microwaves Chapter 4 & ‘Student Assessment 4 1, In order for maximum reflection to occur: the angle of incidence must be half of the angle of reflection. [the angle of incidence must be equal to the angle of reflection. @]__ the angle of incidence must be greater than the angle of reflection. the angle of incidence must be 30°. 2. Ahardboard sheet: [a] does not reflect microwaves. [E]___ reflects microwaves better than metal. [e]__ reflects microwaves rmuch better than plastic. [3] __ partially reflects microwaves. 3. Which of the following statements is true? [a] The plastic and hardboard sheets reflect microwaves beiter than the wide metal plate. [E]_— The plastic sheet reflects microwaves better than the wide metal plate, but not as well a the hardboard sheet. (G]__ The plastic and hardboard sheets do not reflect microwaves as well as the wide metal plate, [H]__ The hardboard sheet reflects microwaves better than the wide metal plate, but not as well as the plastic sheet. 4. A large plate made of metal is: a better reflector of microwaves than a small metal plate, [] poorer reflector of microwaves than a small metal plate. [e] a poorer reflector microwaves than a hardboard sheet of the same size. [H]__ no better at reflecting microwaves than a small metal plate, because the size of the plate is unimportant. Continued. LJ Techical Systems 33oYMOM awa aa aaa Aaa tr gop » CT60 Radar and Radio Propagation Laboratory Manual Chapter 5 Chapter 5 Radar and Radio Propagation Objectives of Haying completed this chapter you will be able to: this Chapter Recognize the operation and function of Radar, Calculate the distance of a Radar target. Outline the Doppler Effect. Investigate the direction finding aspect of Radar. Items Required Microwave Communications Base for this Chapter Microwave Transmitter Microwave Receiver 2 narrow metal plates 2 support brackets with pegs LJ Technical Systems 35Radar and Radio Propagation CT60 Chapter 5 Laboratory Manual 5.1 Microwave Detection Systems In this chapter you will examine some of the applications of the reflection of microwaves. Various techniques have been developed for locating the positions of objects by reflecting from them waves of known speed. In RADAR (RAdio Detection And Renging), radio waves (for example, 3em microwaves, as used by the microwave trainer) are emitted in short pulses by a transmitter and picked up efter reflection from the ‘object! or target, as seen in pure 23, anmied ple reflected pulse " Ja reflected pulse ‘transmitted pulse RADAR | TXIRX Figure 23 - The Concept of Radar The received pulse is displayed on an oscilloscope (sometimes called a Cathode Ray Oscilloscope or CRO) which is triggered to start by the transmitted pulse. ‘The oscilloscope shows the time taken for the waves to travel twice the distance from the transmitting station to the ‘object’. (Note that, to avoid confusion, the interval between transmitted pulses must be greater than the time taken for the received pulses to return.) 36 LJ Technical Systems ii ei a ea ht in aw ia ea a aa CT60 Radar and Radio Propagation Laboratory Manual Chapter 5 ‘As an example, suppose the pulses take 30 microseconds to travel from the transmitting station to the object and back again. This means that they take 15 microseconds to travel from the transmitting station to the object. Since all electromagnetic waves travel at the same speed (approximately 3 x 10° m/s in air), the distance traveled will be: distance = speed x time taken = (3 x 108) x (IS x 10%) = 4500m or 4.5km Note that if you are given the total time taken between transmitted and received pulses, then the distance given by this formula must be divided by 2 in order to find the distance between the target and the Radar. Military ‘objects’ include aircraft and missiles, In ships equipped with Radar to assist navigation in fog and at night, @ narrow microwave beam is swept continuously through 360 degrees by a rotating antenna. The pulses reflected from land, other ships and buoys are shown on a special oscilloscope, called a Plan Position Indicator (PPL), see Figure 24. This has the timebase origin in the ‘center of the screen, representing the shi Figure 24 ~ Plan Pasition Indicator Radar can also be used to help aircraft waiting to land at an airport, Modern airport Radar systems include the capability to identify individual aiveraft end to label each object on the Radar screen with the aircraft's identification code. LJ Technical Systems 7Radar and Radio Propagation CT60 Chapter 5 Laboratory Manual Microwaves are sometimes used to measure the speed of cars and to record those exceeding the speed limit. A hand held speedometer transmits at a frequency of 10 gigahertz, as shown in Figure 25. ‘As the car moves towards the policeman, the number of waveftonts reghing the receiver in a given amount of time (that is, the reflected microwave frequency) will increase. The frequency of the reflected microwave signal is related to the speed at which the vehicle is moving. This is called the Doppler Effect. reflected waves Figure 25 - The Doppler Effect 38 As the car moves towards the policeman the received frequency increases and as the car moves away from the policeman the received frequency decreases. How much the received frequency changes from the transmitted frequency depends upon the speed the cat is moving. : The Doppler Effect is also used in some doors that open automatically, to detect if anyone is moving towards them. SONAR, (or SOund Navigetion And Ranging), is similar to Radar but employs ultrasonic waves, that is sound waves with frequencies above the maximum audible frequency of about 20kHz. Sonar is used to measure the depth of the sea and to scan for schools of fish, Another term for this is Echo Sounding. In the non-destructive testing of materials, ultrasonic waves can detect hidden flaws in ‘materials such as metal castings. LJ Technical SystemscT60 Radar and Radio Propagation Laboratory Manual Chapter 5 5.2 Practical Exercise This experiment is designed to illustrate the direction finding aspect of Radar. + Connect the system as shown in Figure 26. Jaa aaa aad |. Locate Receiver in postion C. SCQNTEK 2000 00 & 2, Connest Receiver power plug to base) _——~" ‘s1200 socket. MICROWAVE RECEIVER 4, Canneet Transmitter power plug o base socket. sr200 3, Locate Transmitter MIGROWAVE in position A. LTRANSUITTER 5. Place Narrow Metal Plates at RADI and RAD2 Figure 26 It is essential that the two metal plates are vertical during this exercise. Li Technical Systems 39 Wawa ad aaa aa ad‘Radar and Radio Propagation CT60 Chapter 5 Laboratory Manual m_ Set the Transmitter switches and dials as shown in Figure 27. 2. Set antenna hom t0 +90 degree postion wicROW f 1 Setawient TRSSuTER tone generator. ~ } Figure 27 | Set the Receiver switches and dials as is Figure 28. 1. Set antenna ‘homie +90, grees. [roan —— 2. Set Receiver to ‘Gain switch High. ~S— ge 3.Setsvritch to Demodulator. 4 sa Loudspeaker ite On, Figure 28 40 LJ Technical SystemsPAS AS A A we we wr ee ah wea a aad CT60 Radar and Radio Propagation Laboratory Manual Chapter 5 Set the Receiver Gain Control to the midway position. Switch the power on. Adjust the Transmitter Gain Control until the Transmitter meter reading is approximately 5. This indicates that a signal is being transmitted by the antenna horn, ™ ~~ Rotate the Transmitter and Receiver antennas to point at RAD 1, then slowly adjust the angles of the Transmitter and Receiver antennas and listen to the loudspeaker. The Receiver signal strength meter reading should become greatest when the Transmitter and Receiver antennas are pointing in one particular direction. Ismay be necessary to adjust the Receiver gain dial, i the Receiver reading is 190 Tow or 100 high. & 5.2a Which of the following positions gives the strongest received signal from RAD J (accurate to 5 degrees)? Transmitter at +70 degrees, Receiver at +85 degrees. [E]__ Transmitter at +120 degrees, Receiver at +150 degrees [E]__ Transmitter at +100 degrees, Receiver at +110 degrees, [a] Transmitter at +80 degrees, Receiver at +120 degrees. Briefly romove the metal plate from RAD I-and observe what happens to the received signel, This should convince you that the signal Is being reflected by the metal plate. f Record what happens when you remove the plate in your student workbook. Repeat the exercise by detecting the plate at RAD 2 & 2b Which of the following positions gives the strongest received signal from RAD 2 (accurate to 5 degrees)? ‘Transmitter at +30 degrees, Receiver at +30 degrees. [B]_ Transmitter at +65 degrees, Receiver at +85 degrees, Transmitter at +80 degrees, Receiver at +110 degrees. [@]_ Transmitter at +40 degrees, Receiver at +120 degrees. Switch the power off. LJ Technical Systems 4Radar and Radio Propagation CT60 Chapter 5 Laboratory Manual HP student Assessment § . 1. What is a typical wavelength for the radio waves used in Radar systems? 30000cm [b] 30m [el 3000cm [a] 0.003em 2, The Doppler Effect states that the frequency of the reflected wave from an object is related to: [a] _ the position of the object with respect to the transmitter. [5] __ the distance between the transmitter and the object. [e] the time taken for the wave to reach the object. [a] the speed of the object. In Radar, the time between the transmitted pulse and the received reflected pulse is equal tor & half the time taken for the microwaves to reach the target. [b] twice the time taken for the microwaves to reach the target. [<] the time taken for the microwaves to reach the target. [@] the time between transmitted pulses. 4. The Radar device which allows you fo observe the position of objects relative to a central timebase origin is the: [2] radar detection indicator. [b] object detection indicator. [<] plan position indicator. [4] object position indicator. 42 LJ Technical SystemsNaa deed da aaa a cCT60 Radar and Radio Propagation Laboratory Manual Chapter 5 BD siucent Assessinent 5 Continued. «mist 5, In a Radar system, the total time taken for the waves to travel from the transmitting station to the object and back to the transmitter is 10 microseconds. Assuming the waves: travel at a speed of 3 x 10° ms, what is the distance between the object and the receiver? 1.5 kilometers 3 kilometers 6 kilometers 9 kilometers Boab 6. The Doppler Effect is the effect that causes: [a] the received pulse to increase in frequency when the target is moving away from the transmitter. [H]__ the received pulse to decrease in frequency when the target is moving towards the| transmitter. the received pulse to increase in frequency when the target is moving towards the| transmitter. [2] the transmitted pulse to increase in amplitude when the, target is moving towards the| transmitter. Notes; 43 a LJ Technical Systems” Radar and Radio Propagation CT60 Chapter 5 Laboratory Manual 4 LJ Technical Systemsre CT60 Penetration Properties of Materials Laboratory Manual Chapter 6 Chapter 6 Penetration Properties of Materials Objectives of Having completed this chapter you will be able to: this Chapter : Items Required for this Chapter LJ Technical Systems Recognize the operation of a line of sight communications link. Identify the attenuation of microwave signals by different materials. Identify where a wire link system would be used. Investigate the attenuation of microwaves and the wire link system. Microwave Communications Base Microwave Transmitter Microwave Receiver 1 plastic sheet 1 hardboard sheet 1 wide metal plate 1 free standing bracket without pegs Microphone Audio wire cable Other materials to test for microwave penetration properties {useful but not essential) 45Penetration Properties of Materials CT60 Chapter 6 Laboratory Manual 6.1 Problems with a Line of Sight Communication Path At microwave frequencies the path that the microwave takes is in a straight line. Because of this, when a communication system is set up using microwaves, it is sometimes referred to as a line of sight communication path. If there is a large distance between transmitter and receiver then the signal may need to be boosted at regular intervals. This is illustrated in Figure 29 where the signal is transmitted a straight line from left to right and is boosted by the transn iver arrangement (known as a repeater) in the center. line of sight microwave links Figure 29 - Boosting a Microwave Signal Using a Repeater When setting up a direct line of sight communication path, it is important that there are no objects in the line of sight that are likely to interfere with the transmission of the microwaves. If there are objects that lie in the path of the microwave signal, then the signal will be attenuated. Figure 30 shows a line of sight transmission path where the microwave signal has been attenuated by the trees that lie in the transmission path. receiver 46 LJ Technical Systems i iCT60 Penetration Properties of Materials Laboratory Manual Chapter 6 a 6.2 Attenuation Constant © ‘ For each material an attenuation constant (a) can be calculated, which describes the amount by which a microwave beam is attenuated in passing through one meter of the material. A material with a low attenuation constant. causes Tittle attenuation, while a materiel with a much larger attenuation constant will result in ‘a much greater attenuation. A thick piece of material will attenuate more than a thin piece of the same material. ‘The attenuation constant for plastics is about 10" nepers/meter, that for hardboard equals about 10° nepers/meter while that for metals equals about 10° nepers/meter. This means that, given materials of a similar thickness, metal attenuates microwaves more than hardboard, which in turn has a greater attenuation than plastic, Note: | neper= 20/(In 10) = 8.686 dB. When a microwave beam penetrates a material, the electric field intensity of the beam is attenuated exponentially inside the material, as shown in Figure 31. electric field intensity pe pe ° ———-rx Figure 31 - Change of Electric Field Intensity as a Microwave Beam Passes Through a Material LI Technical Systems "7 a eePenetration Properties of Material CT60 Chapter 6 Laboratory Manual Figures 32 & 33 show the behavior of a microwave beam inside two materials having the same thickness, but with different attenu \ Figure 32 - Low Attenuation Figure 33 - High Attenuation Another term that is used when talking about microwave absorption is skin depth. The skin depth of a material is defined as the distance that a microwave beam can penetrate into the material, before the electric field intensity decreases by 8.686dB, Mathematically, skin depth is defined as: , _ 1 ‘ : Skin Depth = J ifemuation Constant (eters) 3 Using the previously quoted figures for attenuation constant, the skin depth of plastics cquals 10'°m, that of hardboard equals 10°m, while the skin depth for metals is only about 10°m (or 10um). In a practical situation, the microwave path in a line of sight communication system must be as clear as possible. If there are materials in the path of the microwave beam that absorb the microwave energy, then the link may be unreliable. If the signal is not strong enough at the receiver, then more repeater stations will have to be constructed to boost the signal and this will increase the cost, 48 LJ Technical SystemsHoe oe od ded ddd eae CT60 Penetration Properties of Materials Laboratory Manual Chapter 6 Because microwaves travel in a straight line, microwave antennas are often jnounted high up. This is to avoid-obstructions and to allow for the curvature of the earth. In carrying out this next experiment, you will investigate the types of materials which are likely to interfere with microwave transmission, You will see that some materials absorb microwaves more than others. 6.3 Practical Exercise - Microwave Attenuation Connect the system as shown in Figure 34. 4, Connect Receiver power pig 1 base fosket / ‘ower plug o bese ‘7200 wucROWAVE RECEMER 1, Locate Tessier i Resever is postion A poten Figure 34 LJ Technical Systems 49- Penetration Properties of Materials CT60 Chapter 6 Laboratory Manual Sct the transmitter switches and dials as shown in Figure 35. 1, Setantenna 10 +50 degree positon, ‘$1200 MICROWAVE 2, Set switeh to tone generator TRANSMITTER Figure 35 Set the Receiver switches and dials as shown in Figure 36. 1. Set antenna horn i 10-80 degrees. hi ,—=<=—_—=-_-—— $7200 MICROWAVE ! 2, Setesiver RECEIVER | ° | | 3.Set switch 10 Demodulator. A. Set Loudspeaker Figure 36 30 LJ Technical Systems“UO Oa a aa a a aa CT60 Penetration Properties of Materials Laboratory Manual Chapter 6 W_ Set both the Transmitter. and, Receiver Gain Controls to their midway positions. Switch on the power, HM Adjust the Receiver Gain Control until the signal strength meter on’ the Receiver reads 2.5. You may also need to adjust the Transmitter Gain Control to achieve this. Place the metal plate, hardboard sheet and plastic sheet in turn on the support bracket and position them in the path of the microwave signal. if other materials are available (for example, a book, damp and dry paper towels etc) place them in the path of the microwave signal, noting the effect that they have on the received signal. f Record the Receiver meter readings for the different materials in your student workbook. & 63a Of the materials provided in the accessories Kit, which material most strongly blocks microwaves? [a] Plastic. (Metal. [e] Hardboard. [@]__ None ofthe materials affected the received signal. & 63b Microwave antennas are often mounted on tall towers or high up on the tops of buildings. Why is this? [a] So that microwave beams can be radiated into space, [B]__Toallow for the curvature of the earth. [e] So that microwave beams will pass over any obstructions. [@]__ Both band c. 1 Switch the power off. sl LJ Technical SystemsPenetration Properties of Materials CT60 Chapter 6 Laboratory Manual If we had to communicate and there were obstructions in the way that would block microwaves, then we could°use a simple wire link, provided the distance ‘was not too far. 6.4 Practical Exercise - A Simple Wire Link MH Connect the system as shown in Figure 37. 3. Connset Receiver power plog 1a base focket / 1, Coanect Transmitter power plug to base socket 2. Conneet microphone to te microphone socket sv200 microwave RECENER 4.Connest Autinwite 5. Connect Audio wire Sahiewaud opt cabletoudiotapat, sooket socket | Figure 37, | i | ] | i 52 LI Technical SystemsCT60 Penetration Properties of Materials Laboratory Manual Chapter 6 Set the Transmitter switches and dials as shown in Figure 38. MICROWAVE orem, 4, Setawitch to -MIGRONAIEY ame eA aa ae a Figure 38 HM Set the Receiver switches and dials as in Figure 39. O° =m uckonave 7 Receiver 1. Setswiteh to Ani ie 2. Se Loudspeaker sch 9 On Figure 39 LJ Technical Systems 53Penetration Properties of Materials CT60 Chapter 6 Laboratory Manual 34 & baa Set both the Transmitter and Receiver Gain Controls to their midway positions. Switch on the powér. ° Hold the microphone as far away from the loudspeaker as possible. Speak into the microphone. Can you hear your voice at the Receiver loudspeaker? [Yes] or [No Set the Transmitter gain to fully counter-clockwise. Say the letter A into the microphone repeatedly and slowly rotate the Transmitter gain control clockwise. Watch the signal meter on the ‘Transmitter and the signal meter on the Receiver as the dial is rotated, The loudspeaker volume and each signal meter reading should inerease as the Transmitter gain control is rotated in a clockwise direction Set the Transmitter gain to mid-way. While speaking into the microphone, disconnect the wire cable from the AUDIO OUTPUT socket at the Transmitter. Watch the signal meter on the Transmitter and the signal meter on the Receiver as the wire cable is disconnected. f Record what happens to the Receiver ‘meter reading in your student workbook. & 6.4b ‘What happens when the cable is disconnected? [a] No sound comes from the loudspeaker but the Receiver meter needle continues to move. [B] | Neither Transmitter nor Receiver meter needle moves, no sound comes from the loudspeaker. [ce] Transmitter meter needle moves, the Receiver meter needle does not ‘move, no sound comes from the loudspeaker. [a] Both Transmitter and Receiver meter needles move together, no sound comes from the loudspeaker. LJ Technical Systems 2 cere nem ettcT60 Penetration Properties of Materials Laboratory Manual Chapter 6 EE ey Disconnect the wire cable from the AUDIO INPUT socket at the Receiver, and adjust the Transmitter and Receiver horn antennas so that they face each other. W > Set the Receiver switch to Demodulator and its gain contro] to the mid- position. Speak into the microphone and watch what happens to the Transmitter and Receiver meter readings. Cheek that you can now hear your voice at the Receiver loudspeaker. Switch the power off. Notes: LJ Technical Systems 35Penetration Properties of Materials CT60 Chapter 6 Laboratory Manual HP stusent Assessment 6 . 1. When setting up a direct line of sight communications link, itis important that: no objects are present between the Transmitter and Receiver. there are objects between the Transmitter and the Receiver. there are no repeaters between the Transmitter and the Receiver. Boee there are trees between the Transmitter and the Receiver. crowaves from a transmitter are not going to reach the receiver if: they are boosted by a repeater. the Receiver is in line of sight with the Transmitter. the Transmitter gain is too high. Bowens they are strongly attenuated. 3. If we wish to construct a communication link but the transmission path has many obstacles and the destination is not far away, the simplest and cheapest option is to use az [a] direct microwave link, i [B) —rosteoted misrowave link, : [a cable. . [B]__ satellite microwave link. 4, Uf distilled water has an attenuation constant of 2 x 10°, then the distance that microwaves would have to penetrate to reduce the electric field intensity by 8.686 dB would be: 500 kilometers. 50 kilometers. 5 kilometers. 2 kilometers. 56 LJ Technical Systems eee |CT60 Penetration Properties of Materials Laboratory Manual Chapter 6 D sutent Assessment 6 Continued... 5. A thin piece of a material having low attenuation constant will: strongly attenuate microwaves. [E] amplify microwaves. [2] cause little attenuation to microwaves, [@__ reflect microwaves. 6. Which of the following statements is true? The skin depth of a material is equal to the attenuation constant. [&] Skin depth is measured in nepers/meter. [e]__ The skin depth of metals is greater than for plastics. {@]__ The skin depth of a material is equal to the reciprocal of the attenuation c ee ee ee Notes: LJ Technical Systems 37Penetration Properties of Materials CT60 Chapter 6 Laboratory Manual Notes: Goce 58 LJ Technical Systems nrWeal aa a a SAA AAPA AP APA AW a a al wa ar ar ar a CT60 The Polarization Grille Laboratory Manual Chapter 7 Chapter 7 The Polarization Grille Objectives of Having completed this chapter you will be able to: this Chapter Recognize polarization and whether it is horizontal or vertical for given conditions. Relate the concept of the polarization grille to practical applications. Investigate the plane polarization of a microwave signal. Items Required Microwave Communications Base is Chapter , . hea cen Microwave Transmitter Microwave Receiver Metal Polarization Grille LJ Technical SystemsThe Polarization Grille CT60 Chapter 7 Laboratory Manual 7.1 Signal Polarization You may recall from Chapter 2 that the signal coming out of a radio antenna is plane polarized. The plane of polarization of the signal is always the same as the orientation of the antenna, So, if @ radio antenna, for example, is vertically oriented, the signal being emitted from it will be vertically polarized, as shown in Figure 40, VN : I}, | \ | Sects a ie | JIA IS) ) In order to receive a signal that is vertically polarized, the receiver needs to be in the same orientation as the transmitter. 60 LJ Technical Systemsaiid dia ia CcT60 The Polarization Grille Laboratory Manual Chapter 7 II Make sure the power to the Transmitter is switched off. HE Now look into the Receiver horn antenna, You will notice that the mixer diode is vertically oriented, as shown in Figure 41. When connected’ to a power supply, it will therefore receive microwaves that are vertically polarized. metal antenna mixer diode (note the vertical orientation) Figure 41 - Looking Into the Receiver Horn Antenna ‘As we explained earlier, the Transmitter must lie in the same orientation as the Receiver if the signal is to be correctly received, Unfortunately, the pulsed FET oscillator is difficult to see because .of the construction of the Transmitter assembly. However, if we could see it then we would see it mounted vertically. LJ Technical Systems 61 he i einstein menmamemmmensisdstittisThe Polarization Grille CT60 Chapter 7 Laboratory Manual In microwave communication systems, it is important to be able to test the plane of polarization of the microwave signal, This can be done using a rectangular metal grille whose edges are made of insulating material. The distance between the metal bars of the grille must be less than half a wavelength, in this case, less than 1.5em, If the grille is placed in the way of a vertically polarized microwave signal, with the grille bars in the vertical position, then the signal will be reflected. This occurs because the electric field is vertical, which means that the magnetic field must be horizontal. Therefore the magnetic field cuts across the metal bars, inducing a current in them and causing the microwaves to be reflected. ‘The polarization grille is shown in Figure 42. insulating material (for example, "(© plastic or wood) Flgure 42 - A Metal Polarization Grille 7.2 Practical Exercise ME Set up the Receiver so that the Gain switch is set to LOW and the DEMODULATOR is selected. Set both the Transmitter and Receiver Gain Controls to their midway positions. 2 LJ Technical SystemsPUN e ee eed CT60 The Polarization Grille Laboratory Manual Chapter 7 —— eee ML Set up the Transmitter sp that it uses the IkHz tone. Switch the power supply on. HE With the Transmitter and Receiver hor antennas pointing at each other adjust the Receiver Gain Control until the signal strength meter on the Receiver reads 5. You may also need to adjust the Transmitter Gain Control to achieve this, I Now place the grille between the Transmitter and the Receiver so that the bars are vertically oriented, as shown in Figure 43. SCGNTEK 2000 sm ras Mecomeve Cammuntatient sT200 MICROWAVE RECEIVER sT200 MICROWAVE TRANSMITTER 1. Place polatization grille here, Figure 43 & 12a What happens to the signal? It increases in strength. It fluctuates. It remains the same. Bae e Its strength decreases. LJ Technical Systems 63"The Polarization Grille CT60 Chapter 7 Laboratory Manual & 7.2 What does this tell you about the plane of polarization of the microwave signal that is coming out of Transmitter? [a] tris horizontal. [8] tis not stable. Itis diagonal, [g]__Itis vertical. HI Now tum the polarization grille by 90 degrees so that the bars are horizontal, keeping the grille is in the same position on the board as before. 7.2¢ What happens to the received signal? It increases. BD] _Itdecreases. [e] ir fluctwates, : [a] Itfalls to zero. You may have noticed that microwave ovens have a wire mesh mounted behind the transparent window of the door. The holes in the mesh allow you to see the food while it cooks, but since the holes are smaller than half a wavelength, the ‘mesh prevents the microwaves inside the closed microwave oven from escaping through the glass door and being harmful to the user. Any microwaves striking the inside of the oven door will be reflected back inside the oven (see Figure 44). wy A) microwaves TY KT "Ms “a ¥ 44 AN + Z, ‘mosh prevents mierowaves rom escaping ‘wire mesh behind door Figure 44 64 LJ Technical SystemsBa aaa aa aaa aa a aa ad a dd ad ada 7 CT60 The Polarization Grille Laboratory Manual Chapter 7 Tum the polarization grille by 45 degrees so that the bars are now midway between the horizontal and the vertical positions. > 7.24 What is the recelyed signal on the meter? fl 5 BH 1 Oo 3 fo ‘You may also have observed that some dish shaped antennas are in the form of a mesh or a grille, In this way, the radio signals are still reflected, but the antennas are much less prone to wind damage since they offer less wind resistance (see Figure 45), a no microwave signals leaking reflected microwaves WY) Figure 45 The spacing between metal bars or strips is critical if this type of reflection is to occur. If the spacing is too large (more than half the wavelength of the microwave), then there will be Radio Frequency Leakage, whereby the radio ‘waves leak out of the back of the antenna instead of being properly reflected. LJ Technical Systems 65The Polarization Grille CT60 Chapter 7 Laboratory Manual M_ Set up the system shown below in Figure 46. Note that the bars of the polarization grille should be Vertical. SCONTEK 2000 1. Locate Reesiver aE in position 2. Connost Receiver power plug to base socket. 4, Consest Transminer power plug 0 base socket. 3. Locate Transminer in position A. 5. Place polareation grille here Figure #6 HH Point the horn antennas of the Transmitter and Receiver towards the metal polarization grille and adjust until the Receiver signal strength reading is at its greatest. I Adjust the Receiver Gain Control until the Receiver signal strength meter reads 5. You may also need to adjust the Transmitter Gain Control to achieve this. & 7.2e Enter your measurement of the received reflected signal (on the Recelyer meter) with the bars vertical. HI Now tum the polarization grille through 90 degrees so that the bars of the polarization grille are horizontal. & 7.2 Enter your measurement of the received reflected signal with the bars horizontal. I Switch the power off. 66 LJ Technical Systems ose rant RET LA aea Se a aaa a aa a a CT60 The Polarization Grille Laboratory Manual Chapter 7 & ‘Student Assessment 7 ‘The plane of polarization of a microwave signal is always: different from the orientation of the antenna. [B]___ the same as the orientation of the antenna. [2] diagonal to the orientation of the antenna. [a] _atrright angles to the orientation of the antenna. If a transmitting radio antenna is horizontally oriented, then the signal being emitted from it will be: [a] __ reflected. [B) horizontally polarized. fe] unpolarized. [a] _ vertically polarized. In order for vertically polarized microwaves to be transmitted, the FET oscillator has to vertically oriented. diagonally oriented. horizontally oriented. ‘at 20° to the vertical axis. In order for a metal grille to prevent the penetration of vertically polarized microwaves, its rods must be: [a] inthe horizontal position. [B]__ midway between the horizontal and vertical positions. [2] parallel to the Earth’s magnetic field. {@]__ inthe vertical position. Continued... LJ Technical Systems 67The Polarization Grille CT60 Chapter 7 Laboratory Manual GD student Assessment 7 Continued. os 5, In order for the grille to effectively prevent the penetration of microwaves, the distance between the metal rods must be: [a] greater than half a wavelength. (8) tess than half'a wavelength. less than one wavelength. [a] __ ess than two wavelengths. 6. A metal grille can be used to test: [2] whether a microwave signal has been reflected, [b] whether a microwave signal has been refracted. (E]_— whether a microwave signal is fluctuating. [G] whether a microwave signal is in @ certain plane of polarization. 7. Ina microwave oven, the wire mesh mounted behind the door: [a] causes the microwaves to diffract. [B]__ prevents the microwaves from escaping. [e] prevents the microwaves from being reflected. [a] __ allows horizontally polarized microwaves to pass through 8, Radio frequency leakage is caused by: high speed winds. [B] the spacing between metal bars being too great. [c] microwave signal amplification. [H]___ the strong absorbent properties ofa metal grille. 68 LJ Technical Systems ge ae NT PT EI ET