On-Site Measurements of Radiation Patterns of VHF and UHF Transmitting Antennae

On-site measurement of directional properties of an antenna is the only mean of a conclusive demonstration that the performance of the antenna is as desired and that it interacts with its environment in a predicted manner. A wide variety of techniques have been employed for the on-site measurements of the amplitude patterns of an antenna, but the best solution is to use a helicopter to carry the field-strength meter or the source of the electromagnetic field. The paper describes the use of a helicopter in measuring antenna radiation patterns in Poland. The results obtained from measurements in the UHF band are illustrated with reproductions of horizontal and vertical patterns, which are compared with theoretical patterns.