Signal correlation between two normal-mode helical antennas for diversity reception in a multipath environment

The spatial correlation coefficient of signals received by two normal-mode helical antennas in a multipath environment characterized by Clarke's model is rigorously obtained. A new formula relating the signal correlation coefficient to the mutual impedance is derived. The mutual impedance is defined and calculated in a new manner. Our findings show that: 1) the envelope correlation coefficient of two helical antennas is greater than that of two monopole antennas; 2) the envelope correlation coefficient is dependent on the antenna terminal load and the mutual impedance and an optimal antenna load can be determined to produce the smallest correlation coefficient; and 3) the frequency response of the envelope correlation coefficient resembles that of the voltage standing-wave ratio.