This calculator determines the gain, beamwidth and effective aperture of a satellite dish from its diameter and operating frequency. It uses a constant π = 3.14 to match the EverythingRF benchmark results.
Ideal for RF engineers, antenna designers and technicians working on satellite, radar and microwave communications systems.
Formulas
HPBW = 60 × (λ / D)
Gain = (π × D / λ)² × η
Ae = (η × π × D²) / 4
Explanation of formulas
- λ is the wavelength calculated from the frequency (λ = c/f).
- D is the diameter of the reflector in meters.
- η is the antenna efficiency (usually between 0.5 and 0.7).
- The gain expresses the concentration capacity of the signal, while HPBW indicates the directivity of the beam.
Calculating the gain of a 1 m parabolic antenna at 10 GHz
Input : D = 1 m, f = 10 GHz, η = 0.65
Output : Gain ≈ 39.6 dBi, HPBW ≈ 1.8°
Benefits and uses
- Allows you to evaluate the performance of parabolic antennas.
- Useful for designing satellite links and radar systems.
- Makes it easier to compare different antenna sizes and frequencies.
- Practical tool for engineers and telecommunications students.