Open-Source Antenna Pattern Validation using FEKO

An open-source antenna pattern measurement system comprised of software-defined radios (SDRs), standard PVC tubing, and 3-D printer components measures the radiation patterns of student-built prototype antennas. Position control is realized using an Arduino microcontroller. Measured principal plane gain patterns for two antenna prototypes are compared to (FEKO) simulated results. The low-cost, open-source nature of the measurement system is ideal for undergraduate-level investigation of antenna theory and measurement.