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Microstrip Patch Length Formula:
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A microstrip antenna consists of a radiating patch on one side of a dielectric substrate which has a ground plane on the other side. They are low profile, conformable to planar and non-planar surfaces, simple and inexpensive to manufacture using modern printed circuit technology.
The calculator uses the microstrip patch length formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the resonant length of a rectangular microstrip patch antenna. The result is converted to millimeters for practical use.
Details: Accurate patch length calculation is crucial for designing antennas that resonate at the desired frequency. Incorrect dimensions can lead to impedance mismatch, reduced efficiency, and frequency drift.
Tips: Enter frequency in Hz and dielectric constant value. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will output the patch length in millimeters.
Q1: Why is the dielectric constant important?
A: The dielectric constant affects the electrical length of the patch. Higher dielectric constants allow for smaller antenna sizes but may reduce bandwidth.
Q2: What are typical dielectric constant values?
A: Common substrate materials have εr values between 2.2 (PTFE) and 10.2 (alumina). FR-4, a common PCB material, has εr ≈ 4.4.
Q3: Is this formula accurate for all patch shapes?
A: This formula is specifically for rectangular patches. Other shapes (circular, triangular) have different design equations.
Q4: What about patch width calculation?
A: Patch width affects impedance and radiation pattern but doesn't significantly affect resonant frequency. It's typically calculated separately.
Q5: Does this account for fringing effects?
A: This is the basic formula. For precise designs, additional corrections for fringing effects and effective dielectric constant may be needed.