Gain enhancement of a pyramidal horn using E- and H-plane metal baffles

A technique for enhancing the gain of a wide-flare angle pyramidal horn is described. The gain of the antenna is increased by placing simple metal strips or baffles inside the horn near its throat. Two baffles, an E- and an H-plane baffle, are described and analyzed. The baffles are first analyzed through two-dimensional (2-D) numerical calculations and then through measurements in an experimental X-band horn. Each baffle enhances the antenna's gain in the respective plane. When the baffles are implemented together the gain enhancement is additive in decibels. The numerical calculations and measurements show that baffles can he used to significantly reduce the size of pyramidal horn antennas.