Analysis of tapered column plasma using full wave simulator

Surface wave plasma column antenna is simulated using full wave HFSS simulator. First the simulation method of a plasma column is described and the results are compared with numerical methods. The tapered tube is then characterized and the effects of the slope of the taper are investigated. Since the excited surface wave reaches the large diameter section of the tube via a conical transition, its length is the result of a compromise. Radiation pattern and VSWR of different slopes and length of tapered columns are measured and the best condition is proposed.