diff --git a/zk/Antennas.md b/zk/Antennas.md index 57b41e2..7fd945a 100644 --- a/zk/Antennas.md +++ b/zk/Antennas.md @@ -103,3 +103,32 @@ Some example calculations: | 6dB | x4 | 10 watts | 40 watts | | 9dB | x8 | 10 watts | 80 watts | | 10dB | x10 | 10 watts | 100 watts | + +### ERIP + +ERP is calculated relative to the half-wave dipole. This is the benchmark. The +power that would be generated using this type of antenna. + +But, as noted above, the dipole has a distinct radiation pattern - diffusing in +poles at right angles to the horizontal plane of the antenna. + +By being tied to the dipole, ERM is therefore not the most universal or +objective unit of measurement. + +To remedy this, there is another unit: ERIP. This stands for **Effective +Isotropic Radiated Power**. It's the same calculation but it uses a theoretical +antenna that would radiate equally in all directions as the benchmark. + +Because of the equal radiation pattern in all directions, EIRP will always be +higher than ERP. Roughly speaking, 10 Watts in EIRP would be 6 Watts in ERP. + +## Antenna polarisation + +**Polarisation** means whether the antenna is positioned on a vertical or +horizontal plane. + +Of the antennas covered at foundation level, only dipoles and Yagis can be +positioned at variable polarities. + +VHF and UHF are received most effectively when the transmitter and receiver have +the same antenna polarisation.