IT 362 - Assessment On Wireless Communication

Running head: ASSESSEMENT
Assessment item 2
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ASSESSEMENT 2
Task 1
Antennas are important components of wireless communication as they facilitate the
transmission and reception of electromagnetic signals through free space. These electronic
devices will integrate electronic circuits without the need for physical conductors. In terms of
application, antennas are designed with different properties based on their design structure or
their design material (MIT, 2004). In this analysis, we categorise antennas based on their
propagation patterns, for instance, some antennas will propagate waves in limit directions
while other will have no restrictions, the direction of transfer.
Types of antennas
1. Directional antennas – These types of antennas will propagate signals in one direction
only. This attribute facilitates their high gain ratios and directivity outcomes. Examples Yagi
and Horn antenna ().
a. Yagi antenna – a common antenna that is used to transfer RF signals in one direction.
They are commonly applied in television set receivers.
Strength
• Yagi antennas have high gains and directivity.
• They are simple to design and install.
• Favourable for long distance transmission (radio-electronics, 2017).
Weaknesses
• Yagi antennas have limited gains.
• Their length also determines the gain which increases their size to accommodate
high gain requirements.

ASSESSEMENT 3
b. Horn antenna – another common example of a directional antenna that is characterised
by a pyramid design structure. This antenna will have a flare-like aperture that will increase
towards its transmission end. Now, due to its design (aperture) it has high gains, a property
that facilitates its application in UHF signals (Rouse, 2017).
Strengths
• They are attributed with high gains, an outcome that is facilitated by their design.
• Moreover, they can operate with different frequencies and bandwidth ranges.
• High directivity.
Weaknesses
• For optimal operation, horn antennas require extended aperture lengths (Rouse,
2017).
2. Omni-directional antennas – unlike the antennas discussed above, Omni-directional
antennas are designed to transmit (or receive) RF signals in all directions. Therefore, when
analysed they project signal lobes in all directions. Example; cellular antennas.
a. Cellular antenna – this antenna has minimal protrusions as its designs are not subject to
direction. This property makes the antenna a suitable accessory for mobile devices that
require miniature components. However, the same design tends to limit its gain and
directivity functions, which necessitates the need for booster towers (Carr, 2012).
Strengths
• First, a cellular antenna can operate in all directions.
• Secondly, it also has optimal amplification capabilities when compared to its size.