Suspended plate antenna array for high power

A suspended plate antenna (SPA) array for a high power application is presented. The application required a compact and light weight antenna with at least 20 percent of impedance bandwidth and 14 dBi of gain as well as a low backlobe over a frequency range of 750 to 850 MHz. A single SPA has a little more than 36 percent impedance bandwidth and 8 to 9 dBi of gain. Forming a 2-dimensional array of four SP As gives an additional 6 dB of gain within a four square foot aperture. The final design meets all design requirements with 37 percent impedance bandwidth from 708 to 964 MHz, 14-15 dBi of gain from 750 to 850 MHz, lightweight aluminum construction, and a compact size, as compared to alternatives, of 24 in. × 24 in × 1.4 in.