End-Fire Antenna Array
An end-fire array has a similar arrangement of elements as the broadside
arrangement but the crucial difference between the two configurations lies on
the way of excitation. In end-fire array, the elements are fed out of phase
generally 180°, while in case of broadside each element is fed with the current
of the same phase.
It is such an arrangement whose maximum radiation is obtained along the array
axis.
The front view of the physical arrangement of elements in the end-fire array is
shown below:
End-Fire Array Antenna
Figure 2 (a) depicts one configuration of an end-fire array antenna. It employs
two half-wave dipoles spaced at a distance of one half-wavelength.
Both elements are driven by a transmission line. This antenna has a bi-directional
radiation pattern but offers a narrower beamwidth and higher gain compared to
a single dipole.
Another method of constructing an end-fire array is shown in Figure 2 (b). This
configuration utilizes multiple (in this case, five) driven elements spaced at a
fraction of a wavelength (D).
By adjusting the number of elements and their spacing, a highly directional
antenna can be created. This antenna is uni-directional, unlike the bi-directional
design in Figure 2 (a).
The specific element spacing causes the lobe in one direction to be canceled
while reinforcing the lobe in the opposite direction. This enhances both gain and
directivity.
Working Principle
End-fire arrays work by constructive interference of radiated waves in the
desired direction and destructive interference in others. This is achieved by:
1. Proper element spacing (usually λ/2).
2. Careful phase shifting between elements to ensure that signals from all
antenna elements arrive in-phase in the end-fire direction.
This ensures maximum radiation in that direction.
1. Array Elements
An end-fire array is made of two or more antenna elements (like dipoles)
arranged in a straight line. Each element is spaced at a specific distance, typically
λ/2 or less, where λ is the wavelength of operation.
2. Phasing
To steer the beam in the end-fire direction:
Elements are fed with a progressive phase shift that matches the delay
caused by the physical spacing.
This means the wave emitted by the rear element lags the wave from the
next element by a precise amount, usually βd, where:
o β = 2π/λ (phase constant)
o d = spacing between elements
So, for the forward end-fire direction:
The phase difference (Δϕ) between adjacent elements = –βd
This causes the waves to add constructively in the direction of
propagation (along the axis of the array).
ADVANTAGES
1. High Directivity Along the Axis
End-fire arrays radiate most of their energy in one direction (along the axis
of the array), which leads to a highly directional beam.
This makes them ideal for point-to-point communication systems, where
energy must be transmitted efficiently from one location to another.
Directivity increases with the number of elements and proper phase
alignment.
2. Narrow Beamwidth
A narrow beamwidth reduces interference from unwanted directions,
which is crucial in radar systems, satellite tracking, and wireless
communications.
A narrower main lobe allows better target resolution and spatial
selectivity.
3. Reduced Side Lobes (with proper design)
When designed with tapered amplitude or Hansen-Woodyard phasing,
end-fire arrays can have low side lobe levels.
This improves the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and minimizes interference
from unwanted directions.
4. Better Gain Efficiency
Compared to omnidirectional antennas, end-fire arrays concentrate
power in a preferred direction, resulting in higher antenna gain.
Useful in applications where maximizing received power or transmission
distance is important.
End-fire arrays can be more space-efficient when aiming the beam along
the axis.
DISADVANTAGES
1. Complex Phase Control Requirements
Precise phase shifting is essential to maintain constructive interference in
the end-fire direction.
Any small error in the phase difference between elements can distort the
radiation pattern, reduce gain, or cause beam squinting.
This increases design complexity, especially in dynamic or frequency-
varying environments.
2. Narrow Bandwidth
End-fire arrays often have a narrow operational bandwidth.
The phase progression designed for a specific frequency becomes
inaccurate as frequency shifts, causing pattern degradation.
This makes them less suitable for broadband or wideband applications
without additional compensation techniques.
3. Limited Beam Steering Range
While some beam steering is possible, it's generally constrained to a
narrow angular range around the end-fire direction.
Excessive steering away from the axis causes significant degradation of the
radiation pattern.
Broadside arrays or planar phased arrays typically offer greater steering
flexibility.
APPLICATIONS
1. Wireless Point-to-Point Communication
🔹 Example: Microwave links, Wi-Fi bridges
End-fire arrays focus energy in a single direction, making them ideal for
long-distance point-to-point communication links.
They improve signal strength, reduce interference, and increase range and
security in wireless networks.
2. Radar Systems
🔹 Example: Ground surveillance radars, automotive radars
In radar systems, end-fire arrays are used to scan along a specific direction
with high resolution and accuracy.
Their narrow beamwidth and high gain help in target detection, tracking,
and angle-of-arrival estimation.
3. Satellite and Space Communication
🔹 Example: Ground-based satellite communication terminals
End-fire arrays are used in satellite ground stations where directivity and
gain are critical.
They help reduce interference with adjacent satellites and maintain strong
uplink/downlink connections.
4. Automotive Applications
🔹 Example: Vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, adaptive cruise
control
