Asymmetric Orthomode Junction for Linear Polarized Antenna - Feed Network

Antenna Feed Networks

Customize A Feed Network

AEM Antennas creates aerospace-grade custom feed networks that can provide a multitude of features to fit a specific set of requirements. We use Industry 4.0 manufacturing techniques to leverage light-weight monolithic parts.

Feed Network Design
Customized Connectors and Transitions
Industry 4.0 Manufacturing Techniques for Production

Feed Network Design

AEM Antennas can supply custom feed and direct radiating horns in various network configurations.

Using the newest Industry 4.0 manufacturing techniques including 3d printing, monolithic feeds can be produced to facilitate assembly complexity and reduce significant weight.

Efficient RF simulation techniques are used at the design stage to quickly converge on a custom solution for your set of requirements. This leads to a shorter lead time from design concept to delivery.

FEATURES

Linear or Circular Polarization
Smooth Wall, Corrugated, & Choke Horns
Single, Dual, or Tri-band Options
Integrated Horn, Filters, OMT, Transitions, and Routing
Light Weight Metallic 3d Printing or Traditional Machining Manufacturing
Custom patterns for meet requirements

Custom Connectors & Waveguide Transitions

We can interface with your wireless system with nearly any type of connector or transition including:

Screw on SMA, SMA-F, N-type, TNC, BNC
Snap on U.Fl (MHF3 / MHF4), SMP
WR4-WR227 Full, Half, and Quarter Size Waveguide Interfaces
Fully customized connectors for a specific application

custom commercial antennas for Omni-directional and directional radiation patterns

Custom Antennas

No matter what your product connects to, an embedded or external antenna can be tailored to meet your needs.

Learn More

Antenna Simulation

Our custom in-house reflector and feed simulation tools (RECO) can quickly optimize an antenna.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the different types of feed networks?

Feedchains can be composed of many different types of components, which can create networks of different types.

Corporate Feeds for Antenna Arrays
A corporate feed made up of several layers of tees provide a method to create an array. This can be implemented in microstrip, stripline, rectangular, or circular waveguide.

Multiple Polarization Feeds
Linear Polarization or Circular Polarization feeds can be developed by using an asymmetric OMT, standard OMT, hybrid, or other components. When combined strategically, this can create multi-polarization configurations.

Multi-band Feeds
Single, Dual, or multi-band feeds are common to reduce weight, size, and system level complexity. Though multi-band feeds are not easy to design, they can offer significant advantages over their single band alternatives.

What methods are used to manufacture feedchains?

Traditionally, CNC machining is used to create all subcomponents of a feedchain including bends, twists, OMTs, Tees, and filters. As the requirements for feeds become more aggressive to reduce weight and size, more organic shapes are needed. Metallic 3d printing feed networks are becoming a more viable option to efficiently route waveguide and provide significant weight relief.

What type of software is used to design feed networks?

Whether a corporate feed is implemented in rectangular waveguide or microstrip, different software is used to accurately model and simulate the network. For rectangular or circular waveguide, Mician Microwave Wizard or FEST3d allows for fast simulation of components using a hybrid Mode Matching technique with Finite Element Method.

How much power can a feed handle?

If enough power is applied to the feed port, high power breakdown can occur by ionization of gases making a conductive path between metallic surfaces. This can cause damage to the metal surfaces or dielectric materials. Typically, large gaps will lower the electric field and the probability of breakdown, so rectangular or cylindrical waveguide is used to route RF towards the radiator when very high powers are required.

Feed Network Design Expertise

✔ Feeds are an integral part of the antenna subsystem and continue to be a challenge as wireless products become more integrated

✔ Matching networks, network design, and automation continue to play a key role in optimum antenna performance

✔ PCB and waveguide feed network simulation can be time consuming, however, selecting the right tool can save significant iteration time

Request A Consultation

Antenna design specialists to design and fabricate your next custom antenna

Ready to start a conversation?

Get in touch