Tests on a 3 GHz ground plane Yagi

Classical dimensioning of a ground plane Yagi antenna for 3 GHz leads to a gain which is 2-3 dB less than predicted, but this can be overcome to some extent by additional directors. The impedance matching strongly depends on the size of the reflector, which should be by a factor of 1.2 longer than given by classical theory. The shape and size of the ground plane itself can be varied considerably with little or no effect on either the radiation pattern or the impedance characteristics but, on the other hand, inaccurate mutual positioning of the individual elements has a drastic influence. Material conductivity is not of prime concern.