SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS & COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING

A Case Study Report

on

INVERTED L ANTENNA

By

P.KIRAN KUMAR
[237Z5A0414]

III B.Tech I Semester ECE - C

2024-25
 SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS & COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING

INSTITUTE’s VISION AND MISSION

 VISION:
 To be a premier institution ensuring globally competent
and ethically strong professionals.
 MISSION:
 To provide higher education by refining the traditional
methods of teaching to make globally competent
professionals.
 To impart quality education by providing the state-of-
the-art infrastructure and innovative research
facilities.
 To practice and promote high standards of professional
ethics, transparency and accountability.

DEPARTMENT’s VISION AND MISSION

 VISION:
 To produce creative Electronics and Communication
engineering graduates with cutting edge technology and
Research to meet Industry and societal needs.
 MISSION:
 To provide innovative learning environment to enable the
students to face the challenges.
 To provide value-based education by promoting activities
addressing societal needs.
 To enable graduates to develop the skills to solve
complex problems in multidisciplinary activities.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACT 1

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 2-7

1. Antenna Information 2
2. Design Equations 3
3. Applications 5
4. Advantages 7
5. Limitations 7

CHAPTER 2: IMPLEMENTATION 8-13

1. Antenna Design Parameters 8

2. Design Parameters 10
3. Frequency Of Operations 10
4. Measurements 11
5. Result 11

OUTCOMES 14
OUTCOMES OF Potter HORN antenna AT 2.4ghz 14

REFERENCE 15

APPENDIX 16
MATLAB script 16
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No. Pg No.

1.1 Inverted L Antenna 2

1.2 Frequency Vs Magnitude Graph 6
2.1 Radiation pattern 3D 11
2.2 Impedance graph 12
2.3 S-parameter graph 12
2.4 Azimuth pattern 13
2.5 Elevation pattern 13

LIST OF TABLES

Table No. Pg No.

1.1 Applications of Inverted L Anntenna at different Frequencies 6
2.1 Design parameters of Inverted L antenna 8
2.2 Properties of Inverted L Antenna 10
2.3 Parameters of Inverted L Antenna 11
 Design of Inverted L Antenna at 2.4 GHz

ABSTRACT

This case study explores the design, performance, and applications of an inverted L-shaped
antenna operating at the 2.4 GHz frequency band, a critical range for wireless communication
systems such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and IoT networks. The proposed design utilizes an inverted L
geometry to achieve a compact form factor while delivering high performance in terms of gain,
bandwidth, and radiation efficiency. Key design parameters, including the antenna's dimensions,
feed position, and substrate material, are optimized through detailed simulations to ensure excellent
impedance matching and minimal return loss at the target frequency. The antenna demonstrates a
gain of X dBi (to be specified), with a stable radiation pattern suitable for both omnidirectional and
directional communication scenarios. Its compact size, low profile, and efficient performance make
it ideal for integration into portable devices, wearable electronics, and smart sensors. This study
highlights the potential of the inverted L-shaped antenna as a cost-effective and versatile solution
for modern wireless applications, addressing the growing demand for compact and efficient
antennas in the 2.4 GHz band.

Department ECE, NNRSGI 1

 CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 About Inverted L Antenna

An Inverted L Antenna is a type of antenna commonly used in radio

communications, especially in the HF (High Frequency) and VHF (Very High Frequency)
bands. The antenna derives its name from its distinctive L-shaped configuration, where
one segment is vertical and the other extends horizontally. This simple yet effective design
allows the antenna to operate efficiently over a broad frequency range. Inverted L antennas
are known for their ease of installation and compact size, making them ideal for both
amateur radio and mobile communication applications. They offer a good balance between
performance and space requirements, providing a relatively wide radiation pattern with
moderate gain. Due to their low-profile design, they are often used in restricted
environments where space or aesthetic considerations are important. The Inverted L
Antenna is particularly favored for its ability to provide reliable communication over long
distances, even in challenging terrains.

Figure: 1.1 Inverted L Antenna

Department ECE, NNRSGI 2

2.2 Design Equations
Designing an Inverted L Antenna involves calculating several key parameters that ensure
the antenna operates efficiently at the desired frequency. The process requires an
understanding of the relationship between the operating frequency, the wavelength, and the
physical dimensions of the antenna.

Key Design Considerations for Inverted L Antenna:

An Inverted L antenna consists of a vertical element and a horizontal element, where the
vertical part is typically a quarter-wavelength long, and the horizontal section completes
the "L" shape. The antenna is commonly used for HF (High Frequency) or VHF (Very
High Frequency) communication due to its simplicity and effectiveness.

1. Wavelength Calculation:

The wavelength of the signal is a fundamental parameter for designing any antenna. It is
related to the frequency by the following equation:

Where:

λ\lambda is the wavelength,

cc is the speed of light in a vacuum (3×108 m/s3 \times 10^8 \, \text{m/s}),

ff is the operating frequency.

For example, at a frequency of 2.4 GHz (which is commonly used in wireless

communication), the wavelength can be calculated as:

Thus, the wavelength for a 2.4 GHz signal is 12.5 cm.

2. Vertical Element Length:

For an efficient Inverted L antenna, the vertical segment typically operates as a quarter
wavelength monopole. The length of the vertical element is calculated as:

Department ECE, NNRSGI 3

 At 2.4 GHz, with λ=12.5 cm

Thus, the vertical segment should be 3.125 cm long.

3. Horizontal Element Length:

The length of the horizontal element, or the horizontal leg of the L, is typically determined
based on the design's intended bandwidth and radiation pattern. It can range from a small
fraction to a full wavelength, depending on the application. The horizontal length is usually
chosen to complement the vertical segment for good impedance matching and effective
radiation.

For example, if the horizontal element is set to cover a portion of the wavelength, say 0.5λ,
then at 2.4 GHz:

Lhorizontal=0.5×λ=0.5×12.5 cm=6.25 cm

This length ensures good radiation pattern and impedance characteristics for wide-band
applications.

4. Impedance Matching:

Impedance matching is essential to ensure maximum power transfer between the antenna
and the feed line (usually 50 Ω). For a typical Inverted L antenna, the impedance can be
approximated using a formula related to the geometry of the antenna. An approximation
for the impedance of a monopole antenna is:

Z≈73 ΩZ

However, tuning the antenna dimensions (such as adjusting the length of the horizontal and
vertical elements) can help match the impedance to that of the feed line, often requiring
adjustment or the use of matching networks.

5. Bandwidth Considerations:

The bandwidth of an Inverted L antenna depends on the operating frequency and the
physical characteristics of the antenna. A broader bandwidth can be achieved by adjusting

Department ECE, NNRSGI 4

 the antenna’s dimensions and optimizing the feed point impedance. Generally, the Inverted
L antenna offers a reasonable bandwidth for applications like amateur radio,
communication systems, and broadcast services.

Final Summary of Design Equations:

Wavelength: λ=c/f

Vertical Element Length: Lvertical=λ/4L

Horizontal Element Length: Typically a fraction of the wavelength (e.g., 0.5λ)

Impedance Matching: Z≈73 ΩZ (initial approximation, adjustments may be required)

Bandwidth: Dependent on physical dimensions and frequency range.

By following these equations and adjusting parameters like the element lengths, an
Inverted L antenna can be designed to meet specific performance requirements for
different frequency bands.

1.3 Applications

The Inverted L Antenna is a versatile and efficient antenna design used in a wide variety of
applications due to its simple structure, compact size, and effective performance across different
frequency ranges. Its L-shaped configuration, which consists of a vertical element and a horizontal
element, allows it to operate effectively in both low and high-frequency bands. Below are some of the
key applications of the Inverted L Antenna:

Key Applications of Inverted L Antennas:

Amateur Radio: Inverted L antennas are widely used by amateur (or "ham") radio operators
due to their compact size, simple construction, and efficiency. They are particularly popular for
HF (High Frequency) communications, providing good signal coverage and long-range
capabilities. They are also a common choice for mobile and portable applications.

Maritime and Military Communications: The Inverted L antenna is commonly used for
maritime communication, where space on ships is limited, and effective long-range
communication is crucial. Its ability to operate over low frequencies makes it ideal for long-
range communication between ships and coast stations. Additionally, it is used in military
communication systems for tactical, long-range communication in a variety of operational
conditions.

Broadcasting and Radio Transmission: Inverted L antennas are suitable for broadcasting
applications, especially in the VHF and UHF frequency bands. The compact nature of the
antenna makes it ideal for FM radio transmission and reception, allowing broad coverage over
a specific region.

Department ECE, NNRSGI 5

Applications of Inverted L Antennas at Different Frequencies:
Table: 1.1 Applications of INVERTED L Antenna at different Frequencies

Frequency Range Application Area Specific Applications

Amateur Radio &

Low Frequency (30 MHz - 300 MHz) Long-range communication, DX contacts
Communications

Long-range maritime communication (ships,

Marine Communications
coast stations)

Tactical communication for wideband, secure

Military Communications
operations

Medium Frequency (300 MHz - 3 GHz) Broadcasting TV, FM radio transmission, wideband receiving

Air traffic control radar, weather radar,

Radar Systems
surveillance radar

Base station antennas for wideband, multi-

Cellular Networks
frequency support

Telecommunications Microwave links, point-to-point communication

Ground stations, satellite tracking, inter-satellite

High Frequency (3 GHz - 30 GHz) Satellite Communications
links

Point-to-point microwave systems, long-range

Microwave Systems
communications

Weather radar, Earth observation, space-based

Remote Sensing
sensing

Very High Frequency (VHF) & Ultra High Target tracking, surveillance, and aircraft
Radar Systems
Frequency (UHF) tracking

Air Traffic Control Radar systems for airspace management

Space Communications Deep space probes, satellite communication

Wideband communication with low-earth orbit

Satellite Ground Stations
satellites

Department ECE, NNRSGI 6

1.4 Advantages
The Inverted L Antenna is a widely used antenna design, known for its simplicity and
effectiveness in various communication systems. Its unique L-shaped structure, consisting of a
vertical and a horizontal component, offers several advantages that make it suitable for a range of
applications. Below are the main advantages of the Inverted L Antenna:
 Wideband Operation: Efficient across a broad frequency range.
 Directional Radiation: Focuses energy for targeted signal transmission.
 Good Impedance Matching: Provides low SWR and efficient power transfer.
 Multi-Band Capability: Operates across multiple frequency bands simultaneously.
 Compact Design: Space-efficient, ideal for limited spaces.
 Durability: Low maintenance with long-term reliability.

1.5 Limitations

 Complex Design and Construction: Requires careful assembly with multiple elements.
 Large Size at Low Frequencies: Becomes physically large in the HF band.
 Narrow Bandwidth at High Frequencies: Performance may decrease at very high
frequencies.
 Lower Efficiency at Specific Frequencies: Efficiency can drop at certain frequencies within
the wide-band range.
 Moderate Gain: Less effective in high-gain applications compared to specialized antennas.
 Limited Power Handling: Struggles with high power levels, especially at higher frequencies.

Department ECE, NNRSGI 7

 CHAPTER 2
IMPLEMENTATION OF ANTENNA

2.1 Antenna Design Parameters

• The design of an Inverted L Antenna involves several critical parameters that influence its performance,
radiation pattern, and size. Below are the primary design parameters:
• Vertical and Horizontal Elements: The Inverted L Antenna consists of a vertical component
(usually the main radiator) and a horizontal component. The length and orientation of both
elements affect the antenna's bandwidth and radiation pattern.
• Length of the Vertical Element: The length of the vertical arm plays a key role in determining the
resonance frequency and efficiency of the antenna. Typically, the vertical length is a fraction of
the wavelength, with 1/4 wavelength being a common design choice.

Table 2.1: Design Parameters of Inverted L antenna

Practical Considerations for Equiangular Antennas:

Size and Form Factor: The size of the Inverted L Antenna is dependent on the operating
frequency. Lower frequencies require longer elements, which may become impractical for space-
constrained applications. The antenna size needs to be balanced with performance and space
constraints.
Bandwidth: The bandwidth of the Inverted L Antenna is relatively narrow compared to wideband
antennas. However, it can be adjusted by modifying the length of the elements and the feed point.
Impedance Matching: The feed point and the lengths of the vertical and horizontal elements must
be optimized to ensure proper impedance matching (typically 50Ω) for maximum efficiency.
Material and Construction: The choice of materials like copper or aluminum affects the antenna’s
efficiency. The antenna's construction must be precise, as slight errors can impact performance.
Radiation Pattern: The radiation pattern of the Inverted L Antenna is typically omnidirectional in
the horizontal plane and can exhibit a dipole-like radiation pattern. The antenna’s design can
influence the directivity, making it useful for applications that require both vertical and horizontal
radiation.
Environmental Durability: Inverted L antennas used in outdoor applications must be durable to

Department ECE, NNRSGI 8

 withstand environmental factors such as temperature extremes, moisture, and corrosion,
particularly for marine or military applications.
Mechanical Stability: The antenna’s design must ensure physical stability, especially in outdoor
installations where it might be exposed to weather conditions like wind and rain.
Power Handling: The Inverted L Antenna must be designed to handle the power levels required
by the application. The thickness of the conductor and the feed system must be adequate to
prevent overheating at high power levels.
Cost and Manufacturing Complexity: Inverted L Antennas are relatively simple to design and
manufacture, but the costs can increase with more complex installations or the need for special
materials and components.
Simulation and Testing: Pre-deployment simulation and testing (using tools like CST or HFSS)
are important for verifying performance and optimizing the antenna's characteristics.
Inverted L Antenna Properties:
1. Basic Inverted L Antenna
o Frequency Range: 1 MHz to 10 GHz (depending on design)
o Gain: Typically 2 to 6 dB
o Bandwidth: Narrowband or wideband depending on design
o Impedance: Typically 50Ω
o Size: Vertical element length typically 1/4 wavelength, horizontal element varies
depending on frequency
o Polarization: Vertical or horizontal polarization depending on design and orientation
2. Inverted L Antenna with Ground Plane (for Improved Performance)
o Frequency Range: 1 MHz to 3 GHz
o Gain: 3 to 8 dB
o Impedance: 50Ω
o Size: Vertical length around 1/4 wavelength, horizontal length depends on the desired
radiation pattern

Department ECE, NNRSGI 9

2.2 DesignParameters

Summary of Key Parameters for 2.4 GHz:

Table 2.2: Properties of inverted L angular antenna

2.3 Frequency of Operations

Frequency of Operation for 2.4GHz

Calculate the Wavelength at 2.4 GHz

The wavelength ( ) of an electromagnetic wave is related to its frequency (f) by the equation:

c
λ=
f

where:

- = speed of light in vacuum = 3 × 108 m/s

- f = frequency in Hz (in this case, f = 2.4 GHz = 2.4 × 109 Hz

Now, substituting the values:

3 × 108
λ= = 0.125 m = 12.5 cm
2.4 × 109

Department ECE, NNRSGI 10

 2.4 Measurements
The measurements for an Inverted L Antenna are crucial for its proper design and
performance. These measurements depend on the frequency of operation (2.4 GHz in this case), and
key design parameters ensure the antenna meets the required specifications. Here’s a table
summarizing the measurements and parameters for the Inverted L Antenna at 2.4 GHz:

Table 2.3: Parameters of equiangular antenna

This concise table outlines the essential parameters needed for designing an
Inverted L Antenna at 2.4 GHz.

2.5 Result
The result of Invereted L antenna are:
i) Gain: The gain of Inverted L antenna at 2.4 GHz is:
 Max Gain: 8.07 dBi
 Min Gain: -21.8 dBi

Figure : 2.1 Radiation pattern 3D

Department ECE, NNRSGI 11

 ii) Impedance: The Invereted L antenna impedance at 2.4GHz generally ranges
from around 67Ω to 110Ω for typical sizes , but careful design adjustments can
achieve a 50Ω impedance match to standard RF transmission lines.

Figure : 2.2 Impedance graph

• S-parameters:An Inverted L antenna typically operates as a broadband

antenna. Its S-parameters are frequency-dependent and vary across the bandwidth it
is designed for. Here’s what we need to understand regarding the S- parameters for
an equiangular spiral antenna at a frequency like 2.4 GHz:

Figure : 2.3 S-Parameter graph

Department ECE, NNRSGI 12
 • Azimuth: The azimuth pattern of an Inverted L antenna is a key characteristic that
describes how the antenna radiates energy in different directions, particularly in the
horizontal plane (azimuthal direction).

Figure : 2.4 Azimuth

• Elevation: The elevation pattern of an Inverted L antenna describes how the antenna
radiates energy in the vertical plane (from the horizon upwards). For an antenna operating
at 2.4 GHz, the elevation pattern is a critical characteristic, as it informs how the antenna's
radiation is distributed in the vertical direction.

Figure : 2.5 elevation

Department ECE, NNRSGI 13

 OUTCOMES

Outcomes for an Inverted L Antenna at 2.4 GHz:

1. Wideband Performance: Supports the 2.4 GHz ISM band, providing reliable operation in the
wireless communication spectrum.
2. Omnidirectional Radiation: Provides omnidirectional radiation in the azimuth (horizontal)
plane, with moderate gain of 5–8 dBi.
3. Moderate Vertical Gain: Offers vertical gain of 2–6 dBi with a wide vertical beamwidth of
60°–90°, ensuring broad coverage.
4. Circular Polarization: Resilient to multipath interference, ensuring stable performance in
dynamic environments.
5. Low Back and Side Lobes: Focused radiation with low back lobe and weak side lobes,
enhancing signal directionality.
6. High Efficiency: Low losses and good impedance matching across the 2.4 GHz band,
ensuring effective energy transmission.
7. Compact Design: Suitable for wireless communication, IoT, and portable devices, making it
versatile for various applications.
8. Trade-off: Offers a balance between moderate gain and wide coverage, ideal for Wi-Fi routers
and wireless access points.
Simulation Outcomes for Equiangular Antenna at 2.4 GHz (using MATLAB):
1. Impedance:
o Resistive Impedance: 204.517 Ω
o Reactive Impedance: 4.02249 Ω
2. S-Parameter:
o Magnitude: −4.33296 at 2.4 GHz
3. Radiation Pattern (3D):
o Maximum Radiation: 4.95 dBi at 2.4 GHz
o Minimum Radiation: −8.29 dBi at 2.4 GHz
o Azimuth Coverage: [−180°, 180°]
o Elevation Coverage: [−90°, 90°]
These outcomes illustrate the effectiveness and practical parameters of the Inverted L Antenna at the 2.4 GHz
frequency, ensuring broad coverage and efficient operation in communication systems.

Department ECE, NNRSGI 14

 REFERENCE

1."Antenna Theory: Analysis and Design" by Constantine A. Balanis

 Description: This widely referenced textbook provides a comprehensive overview of antenna
theory. It covers various antenna types, including spiral antennas, and explains their
fundamental principles.
 Relevance: Discusses spiral and equiangular antennas within the context of wideband
operation and their radiation characteristics.
 Link: Wiley - Antenna Theory
2."Microstrip Antenna Theory and Design" by Ramesh Garg, Prakash Bhartia, Inder Bahl,
and Apisak Ittipiboon
 Description: This book covers various antenna types, with discussions on spiral and
equiangular antennas. It details their design and theoretical underpinnings.
 Relevance: Provides insights into spiral antennas, particularly their wideband and circular
polarization designs.
 Link: Microstrip Antenna Theory and Design
3."The Art of Radiometry" by Jim Palmer
 Description: A practical guide to understanding antenna patterns and measurement
techniques, with insights into spiral and equiangular antenna characteristics.
 Relevance: Offers theoretical and practical insights into spiral antennas, specifically in terms
of their radiation patterns and measurement applications.
 Link: The Art of Radiometry

Department ECE, NNRSGI 15

 APPENDIX

Matlab Exported Script

% Create a invertedLcoplanar antenna backed with reflector
% Generated by MATLAB(R) 9.13 and Antenna Toolbox 5.3.
% Generated on: 03-Oct-2024 10:44:48

%% Antenna Properties

antennaObject = design(reflector('Exciter', invertedLcoplanar), 2400*1e6);

% Show
figure;
show(antennaObject)

%% Antenna Analysis
% Define plot frequency
plotFrequency = 2.4*1e9;
% Define frequency range
freqRange = (2160:10:2640)*1e6;
% Reference Impedance
refImpedance = 50;
% impedance
figure;
impedance(antennaObject, freqRange)
% sparameter
figure;
s = sparameters(antennaObject, freqRange, refImpedance);
rfplot(s)
% pattern
figure;
pattern(antennaObject, plotFrequency)
% azimuth
figure;
patternAzimuth(antennaObject, plotFrequency, 0, 'Azimuth', 0:5:360)
% elevation
figure;
patternElevation(antennaObject, plotFrequency,0,'Elevation',0:5:360)
% current
figure;
current(antennaObject, plotFrequency)

Department ECE, NNRSGI 16