Exploring Microwave Beam Width: Frequency's Impact on Minimum Size (50GHz)

[Delta2]

I guess we all know laser beams. I wonder if we can make beams in the microwave frequency range and how the beam width relates to the frequency, e.g what is the minimum beam width we can achieve with a frequeny of 50Ghz.

 

[davenn]

here's a beamwidth calculator for you

http://www.satsig.net/pointing/antenna-beamwidth-calculator.htm

as you will see beamwidth is a function of both frequency and antenna type and size
in this calculator they are referring to dish antennas


Dave

 

[Delta2]

I can see beam width is expressed in degrees of an angle and not in units of length. So beams have cone shape and not cylindrical shape afterall? Or (I believe that's the case) is it that they have no shape at all, we just "make up" their shape by considering cutoff values in the power of the field?

 

[davenn]

So beams have cone shape and not cylindrical shape afterall?

yes that's correct. Even a well colluminated laser beam will spread out over a distance
a radio signal even more so

a radio signal beamwidth is usually given ( as you saw) in degrees and to its -3dB ( half power) points either side of the beam centreline. Beamwidth is very dependant on frequency and antenna gain
My 24GHz signal from a 1 metre diameter dish has a -3dB beamwidth of about 4 degrees ( ~ 2 deg either side of the centreline)Dave

 

[sardar]

I can confirm that it is indeed possible to create microwave beams in the frequency range of 50GHz. Microwave beams are electromagnetic waves with wavelengths ranging from one meter to one millimeter, and are commonly used in various applications such as communication, cooking, and medical imaging.

The beam width, or the diameter of the beam, is an important factor to consider in microwave technology. It determines the precision and accuracy of the beam's target, and can also impact the efficiency and effectiveness of the application. The beam width is affected by several factors, including the frequency of the microwave beam.

In general, the higher the frequency of the microwave beam, the narrower the beam width. This is because higher frequencies have shorter wavelengths, which allows for more precise focusing and control of the beam. A frequency of 50GHz falls within the microwave range and can potentially achieve a very small beam width, depending on the specific equipment and techniques used.

However, it should be noted that the minimum achievable beam width is not solely determined by the frequency. Other factors such as the type of antenna used, the design of the microwave system, and the quality of the components can also play a significant role. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider all these factors when attempting to achieve a specific beam width.

In conclusion, it is indeed possible to create microwave beams in the frequency range of 50GHz, and the beam width can potentially be very small. However, the minimum achievable beam width is influenced by various factors, and further research and experimentation may be needed to determine the most optimal conditions for achieving the desired beam width.