Antenna candidates for digital radio broadcast

The digital radio broadcast for both satellite and terrestrial applications is discussed. The broadcast will be in the L-band, around 1.45-1.5 GHz. Each system requires adequate gain and appropriate polarization to operate and maintain interference free co-existence with the other. For mobile operations the electrical requirements of the antenna for direct reception of satellite signal, or terrestrial broadcast are identified and discussed. Candidate antennas for various applications are then presented. For low profile and low cost antennas microstrip radiators are the most suitable candidates and samples of design options are provided. Other suitable antennas such as, multifilar helices are also presented and discussed.