U.S.

Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
National Institute of Justice

National Institute of Justice

Law Enforcement and Corrections Standards and Testing Program

Fixed and Base Station Antennas

NIJ Standard-0204.02
 ABOUT THE LAW ENFORCEMENT AND CORRECTIONS STANDARDS
AND TESTING PROGRAM

The Law Enforcement and Corrections Standards and Testing Program is sponsored by the Office of Science and
Technology of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), U.S. Department of Justice. The program responds to the mandate
of the Justice System Improvement Act of 1979, which created NIJ and directed it to encourage research and develop-
ment to improve the criminal justice system and to disseminate the results to Federal, State, and local agencies.
The Law Enforcement and Corrections Standards and Testing Program is an applied research effort that determines
the technological needs of justice system agencies, sets minimum performance standards for specific devices, tests
commercially available equipment against those standards, and disseminates the standards and the test results to criminal
justice agencies nationwide and internationally.
The program operates through:
The Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Advisory Council (LECTAC) consisting of nationally recog-
nized criminal justice practitioners from Federal, State, and local agencies, which assesses technological needs and sets
priorities for research programs and items to be evaluated and tested.
The Office of Law Enforcement Standards (OLES) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, which
develops voluntary national performance standards for compliance testing to ensure that individual items of equipment
are suitable for use by criminal justice agencies. The standards are based upon laboratory testing and evaluation of
representative samples of each item of equipment to determine the key attributes, develop test methods, and establish
minimum performance requirements for each essential attribute. In addition to the highly technical standards, OLES
also produces technical reports and user guidelines that explain in nontechnical terms the capabilities of available
equipment.
The National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (NLECTC), operated by a grantee, which
supervises a national compliance testing program conducted by independent laboratories. The standards developed by
OLES serve as performance benchmarks against which commercial equipment is measured. The facilities, personnel,
and testing capabilities of the independent laboratories are evaluated by OLES prior to testing each item of equipment,
and OLES helps the Technology Center staff review and analyze data. Test results are published in Equipment
Performance Reports designed to help justice system procurement officials make informed purchasing decisions.
Publications are available at no charge from the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center.
Some documents are also available online through the Internet/World Wide Web. To request a document or additional
information, call 800-248-2742 or 301-519-5060, or write:

National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center

P.O. Box 1160
Rockville, MD 20849-1160
E-mail: asknlectc@nlectc.com
World Wide Web address: http://www.nlectc.org

The National Institute of Justice is a component of the Office of

Justice Programs, which also includes the Bureau of Justice Assis-
tance, Bureau of Justice Statistics, Office of Juvenile Justice and
Delinquency Prevention, and the Office for Victims of Crime.
U.S. Department of Justice
Office of Justice Programs
National Institute of Justice

Fixed and Base Station Antennas

NIJ Standard-0204.02
Supersedes NIJ Standard-0204.01 dated December 1981

June 1998
 National Institute of Justice

Jeremy Travis
Director

The technical effort to develop this standard was conducted

under Interagency Agreement No. 94-IJ-R-004,
Project No. 96-006.

This standard was formulated by the Office of Law

Enforcement Standards (OLES) of the
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
under the direction of A. George Lieberman,
Program Manager for Communications Systems,
and Kathleen M. Higgins, Director of OLES.
Revision of this standard was performed at the National
Telecommunications and Information Administration,
Institute for Telecommunications Sciences
by John M. Vanderau and William A. Kissick.
The preparation of this standard was sponsored by
the National Institute of Justice, David G. Boyd,
Director, Office of Science and Technology.
 FOREWORD

This document, NIJ Standard-0204.02, Fixed and Base Station Antennas, is an equipment standard developed by
the Office of Law Enforcement Standards at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. It is produced as part
of the Technology Assessment Program of the National Institute of Justice.
This standard is a technical document that specifies the performance parameters and other requirements that
equipment should meet in order to satisfy the needs of the criminal justice agencies for high quality service. Purchasers
can use the test methods described herein to determine whether a particular item of equipment meets the essential
requirements, or they may have the tests conducted in their behalf by a qualified testing agency. Procurement officials
may also refer to this standard in their purchasing documents and require that equipment offered for purchase meet these
requirements. Compliance with the requirements of the standard may be attested to by the procuring agency, an
independent laboratory, or guaranteed by the vendor.
Because this NIJ standard is designed as a procurement aid, it is necessarily technical in nature, however, every
effort has been made to present the material herein as clearly and concisely as possible with a minimum of technical
jargon. For those who seek general guidance concerning the selection and application of law enforcement equipment,
user guides have also been developed and published. The guides explain in nontechnical language how to select
equipment for a particular application.
NIJ standards are subjected to continuing review. Technical comments and recommended revisions are welcome.
Please send suggestions to the Program Manager for Standards, National Institute of Justice, U.S. Department of Justice,
Washington, DC 20531.
Before citing this or any other NIJ standard in a contractual document, users should verify that the most recent
edition is being used. Write to: Director, Office of Law Enforcement Standards, National Institute of Standards and
Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-0001.

David G. Boyd, Director

Office of Science and Technology
National Institute of Justice

iii
 NIJ STANDARD
FOR
FIXED AND BASE STATION ANTENNAS

CONTENTS

Page

FOREWORD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
1. PURPOSE AND SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
2. FREQUENCY BANDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
3. DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
4. REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
4.1 Minimum Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
4.2 User Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
4.3 Environmental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
4.4 Antenna Power Rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.5 Radiation Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.6 Voltage Standing Wave Ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.7 Radiation Hazard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
5. TEST METHODS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
5.1 Standard Test Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
5.2 Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
5.3 Scale Model Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.4 Electrical and Radiation Performance Tests. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5.5 Environmental Test Methods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5.6 Radiation Hazard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
APPENDIX A—REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

v
 COMMONLY USED SYMBOLS AND ABBREVIATIONS

A ampere H henry nm nanometer

ac alternating current h hour No. number
AM amplitude modulation hf high frequency o.d. outside diameter
cd candela Hz hertz (c/s) V ohm
cm centimeter i.d. inside diameter p. page
CP chemically pure in inch Pa pascal
c/s cycle per second ir infrared pe probable error
d day J joule pp. pages
dB decibel L lambert ppm part per million
dc direct current L liter qt quart
8C degree Celsius lb pound rad radian
8F degree Fahrenheit lbf pound-force rf radio frequency
diam diameter lbf?in pound-force inch rh relative humidity
emf electromotive force lm lumen s second
eq equation ln logarithm (natural) SD standard deviation
F farad log logarithm (common) sec. section
fc footcandle M molar SWR standing wave radio
fig. figure m meter uhf ultrahigh frequency
FM frequency modulation min minute uv ultraviolet
ft foot mm millimeter V volt
ft/s foot per second mph mile per hour vhf very high frequency
g acceleration m/s meter per second W watt
g gram N newton l wavelength
gr grain N?m newton meter wt weight

area=unit2 (e.g., ft2, in2, etc.); volume=unit3 (e.g., ft3, m3, etc.)

PREFIXES

d deci (1021) da deka (10)

c centi (1022) h hecto (102)
m milli (1023) k kilo (103)
m micro (1026) M mega (106)
nano (102 )
9
n G giga (109)
212
p pico (10 ) T tera (1012)

COMMON CONVERSIONS
(See ASTM E380)

ft/s30.3048000=m/s lb30.4535924=kg
ft30.3048=m lbf34.448222=N
ft?lbf31.355818=J lbf/ft314.59390=N/m
gr30.06479891=g lbf?in30.1129848=N?m
in32.54=cm lbf/in236894.757=Pa
kWh33 600 000=J mph31.609344=km/h
qt30.9463529=L

Temperature: (T8F232)35/9=T8C

Temperature: (T8C39/5)+32=T8F

vi
 NIJ Standard-0204.02

NIJ STANDARD
FOR
FIXED AND BASE STATION ANTENNAS

1. PURPOSE AND SCOPE

The purpose of this document is to establish minimum performance requirements and methods of test for antennas
that are used at base stations or other fixed sites by law enforcement agencies. Whereas the antennas under test must
meet all the electrical and radiation performance specifications cited in this document at ambient conditions, the
environmental performance specifications stated herein should be selectively applied according to the anticipated oper-
ating environment of the antenna. That is, the antenna need only comply with those environmental specifications not
waived by the procuring agency. This standard is a revision of NIJ Standard-0204.01, dated December 1981 [1]*. This
revision incorporates the latest recommended methods and procedures of industry standards related to communications
antennas and environmental test procedures.

2. FREQUENCY BANDS

The “land mobile service” is the formal title of the type of radio service used by law enforcement agencies for
their radio communications. The radio spectrum bands reserved for use by law enforcement agencies are labeled for
“public safety” use. Land mobile service is defined as “a mobile radio service between base stations and land mobile
stations, or between land mobile stations” by the NTIA Manual of Regulations and Procedures [2]. Another,
commonly-used phrase for land mobile service is “land mobile radio.” The four land mobile radio frequency bands
used in the United States are described below.

2.1 VHF Low-Band

This band is located at 25 to 50 MHz and generally uses channels 20 kHz wide.

2.2 VHF High-Band

This band is located at 150 to 174 MHz and uses channels 30 kHz wide. Adjacent channels may be separated by
15 kHz for geographically separated systems.

2.3 UHF Bands

This band is divided into two parts. The first part is located at 450 to 470 MHz. The second part, from 470 to 512
MHz, shares spectrum with UHF television channels 14 through 20 in a few major urban areas. Channels are 25 kHz
wide.

2.4 800/900–MHz Bands

The portion of the radio spectrum, from 806 to 940 MHz, is apportioned among many services, including cellular
telephone, paging, nonpublic safety, and conventional and trunked public safety. Channels for public safety are
reserved in blocks of channels, generally 25 kHz wide, in several locations within this portion of the radio spectrum.

* Numbers in brackets refer to references in Appendix A.

1
 3. DEFINITIONS
The principal terms used in this document are defined in this section. These terms comply with accepted industry
definitions specified in ANSI/IEEE STD 145-1993, IEEE Standard Definitions of Terms for Antennas [3]. Other terms
are defined within this section and EIA/TIA-329B, Minimum Standards for Communications Antennas, Part I—Base
Station Antennas [4].

3.1 Ambient Conditions

Ambient conditions of temperature and humidity are defined as any combination of prevailing weather conditions
of temperature between 13 to 35 8C (55 to 95 8F) and relative humidity between 25 to 85 percent.

3.2 Dipole Antenna, Resonant Half-Wavelength

A straight metallic radiator, usually energized at its center, whose length is slightly less than one-half wavelength1
of the energizing signal and whose diameter is small compared to its length. The current goes to zero at the ends of the
antenna. The maximum radiation intensity lies in the plane passing through the center of the antenna and normal to its
axis.

3.3 Effective Antenna Volume

The effective antenna volume is the actual volume occupied by the radiating part of the antenna plus one-half
wavelength all the way around.

3.4 Gain
In a given direction, the ratio of the radiated power density to the power density that would be obtained if the power
delivered to the antenna were radiated isotropically (see also Sec. 3.14 below).

3.5 Isotropic Radiator

A hypothetical antenna that radiates or receives equally in all directions.

3.6 Main Lobe (Major Lobe)

The radiation lobe that contains the direction of maximum gain.

3.7 Pattern Recorder

A device that records the amplitude of the output signal from an antenna and receiver and displays the amplitude as
a function of the direction relative to the antenna. This device may collect and store tabular data or graphics information
originating from a network analyzer or similar radio frequency (rf) measurement device, and be capable of graphically
plotting or displaying measured data or presenting the data in tabular format.

3.8 Polarization
In a given direction from the antenna, the orientation of the electric field vector of the wave radiated from the
antenna, or the orientation of the electric field vector of the wave incident upon the antenna which produces the maxi-
mum voltage at the antenna terminals.

1
Dipole antennas in free space which are exactly one-half wavelength long exhibit an impedance which has an inductive component and is repre-
sented by a complex number 73.1 + j42.5 V; the imaginary part of the complex number indicates the inductive effects. The reactance of the antenna
depends on the length and diameter (in wavelengths) of the antenna in a complicated fashion involving sine integral functions and cosine integral
functions. By shortening the antenna slightly, the inductive component can be made equal to zero. When there is no inductive or capacitive
component of impedance, then the antenna is said to be resonant. Shortening the antenna from one-half wavelength to bring it into resonance also
lowers the radiation resistance from 73 V to a value of about 58 V; this further improves the impedance match and VSWR between the antenna and
the 50 V (nominal) coaxial cable transmission line.

2
3.9 Power Rating
The maximum continuous-wave power that can be endlessly applied to an antenna without degrading its perfor-
mance.

3.10 Quiet Zone

That region of an antenna test range illuminated by an electromagnetic wave from the source antenna where the
amplitude taper (ripple) is less than 0.25 dB and phase taper (ripple) is less than 22.58. The quiet zone must totally
enclose the effective antenna volume of the antenna under test.

3.11 Radiation Pattern (Antenna Pattern)

A complete radiation pattern (or antenna pattern) is a representation of the magnitude of the electric (or magnetic)
field strength (or the power density) as a function of direction.2 The pattern is generally displayed in a spherical coordi-
nate system (r , Q , F ), with the antenna located at the center (radial distance r = 0). The shape of the pattern is
independent of r for r sufficiently large (much greater than a wavelength and much greater than the largest dimension of
the antenna). Often, only the relative field strength (or power density) is given and it is normalized to unity (0 dB) in the
direction of the main lobe (maximum gain).

3.11.1 Radiation Pattern Planes (Cuts)

The three-dimensional information of a radiation pattern cannot be easily displayed or used; therefore, only
cross-sections (or pattern “cuts”) of the pattern in planes of interest are usually presented. The planes of greatest interest
are the horizontal plane (Q = 908) and the vertical planes (F = constant), with the antenna usually oriented so that the
main lobe gain is at Q = 90 and F = 08. These are called the horizontal pattern and the vertical patterns, respectively.

3.12 Relative Antenna Gain

The ratio of the power received by the antenna under test to that of a reference antenna in the same direction, with
the same incident power density, frequency, and polarization.

3.13 Scale Ratio (R )

The ratio of operating frequency of a scale model antenna to the operating frequency of the full size antenna.

3.14 Standard Gain Units

The reference units used to measure relative antenna gain. The reference units are usually either decibels relative
to an isotropic antenna (dBi) or decibels relative to a lossless resonant half-wavelength dipole antenna (dBd). Gain
expressed in dBi is related to gain expressed in dBd as follows:

G dBi = G dBd + 2.15 (1)

3.15 Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) or Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR)
The ratio of maximum to minimum rf voltage (or current) appearing along a transmission line. This quantity
indicates how well energy is coupled into an antenna. When the VSWR = 1, all of the energy is transferred to the
antenna and none is reflected.

3.16 Wind Load Rating

The maximum wind load that an antenna system or assembly (including supporting structure) can withstand
without physical damage or degradation to electrical or radiation performance.
2
This statement implies that the antenna is used for transmitting. If the antenna does not contain active elements or nonlinear devices (e.g., ferrites)
then it is reciprocal. In this case, its characteristics (e.g., antenna gain and pattern) are the same whether it is used for transmitting or receiving. An
alternative statement for a receiving antenna is: The complete radiation pattern is a representation of the magnitude of the voltage induced at the
antenna terminals as a function of direction of arrival of an incident plane electromagnetic wave of a give polarization.

3
 4. REQUIREMENTS
4.1 Minimum Performance
The antenna shall meet or exceed all of the requirements of this standard as given below and summarized in Table
4.1-1. These performance requirements meet or exceed those specified in TIA/EIA STD 329-B [4].

TABLE 4.1-1. Minimum performance standards for fixed and base station antennas.

Antenna Characteristic Minimum Requirement

Rated Power Output No physical damage

Radiation Pattern 6 1.5 dB of the gain specified in the main lobe, 6 5 dB
of the gain in minor lobes
(Voltage) Standing Wave Ratio 1.5 or less for all frequencies of intended operation
Wind Load Rating 1.65 times the values specified in TIA/EIA-222F Chap-
ter 16 [5], or comply with local building code regula-
tions, whichever is more stringent

4.2 User Information

The following information shall be supplied to the purchaser by the antenna manufacturer, system integrator, or
distributor, and shall include the following:

(a) Operating frequency range

(b) Power rating
(c) Relative antenna gain in standard gain units over frequency range of intended use
(d) Polarization
(e) Vertical (elevation plane) radiation pattern
(f) Horizontal (azimuthal plane) radiation pattern
(g) Nominal impedance
(h) Voltage standing wave ratio over frequency range of intended use
(i) Connector type
(j) Wind load rating (ice load rating if applicable)
(k) Physical dimensions
(l) Weight
(m) Material composition
(n) Operating, installation, and maintenance instructions
(o) Rf radiation hazard zone at full rated power
(p) Certification of compliance with this standard

4.3 User Information

Fixed and base station antennas shall be capable of withstanding the physical environment of the climatic regions
in which they exist, as defined in MIL STD 210C [6]. Test methods described in MIL STD 810E [7] shall be employed
by the manufacturer on representative sample lots to assure compliance with the following requirements. The applicable
environmental tests performed and required performance parameters are influenced by the environment in which the
candidate antenna system is to be deployed. Whereas the antennas under test must meet all the electrical and radiation
performance specifications cited in this document at ambient conditions, the environmental performance specifications
stated herein should be selectively applied according to the anticipated operating environment of the antenna. That is,
the antenna need only comply with those environmental specifications not waived by the procuring agency.

4.3.1 Wind Load Rating

Antennas shall be capable of withstanding repeated and sustained wind loads, at a factor of 1.65 times larger than
those specified in Chapter 16 of TIA/EIA-222F [5], without degradation of electrical performance or structural
integrity. Ice loading requirements of Section 4.3.8 may apply. Antenna structures and tower designs, including

4
payload, shall be certified by a professional civil engineer to withstand the stated wind loads and shall conform to all
local building codes.

4.3.2 High Temperature/Solar Radiation

Antennas shall withstand sustained ambient temperatures as specified in table 4.3.2-1 as determined in accordance
with Section 5.5.2.

TABLE 4.3.2-1. High temperature/solar radiation performance requirements.

Region Temperature Solar Radiation

CONUS, AK, HI, US territories 43 8C (110 8F) 1120 W/m2

except southwestern United States

Southwestern United States 49 8C (120 8F) 1120 W/m2

4.3.3 Low Temperature

Antennas shall withstand sustained ambient temperatures as specified in table 4.3.3-1 as determined in accordance
with Section 5.5.3.

TABLE 4.3.3-1. Low temperature performance requirements.

Region Temperature

CONUS, HI, US territories and southern –32 8C (– 25 8F)

coastal regions of Alaska

Southwestern inland regions of Alaska – 46 8C (– 50 8F)

Northeastern and Central Alaska – 51 8C (– 60 8F)

4.3.4 Blowing Rain

Electrical performance and structural integrity of antennas can be compromised by the penetration of rain
into housings, connectors, radomes, matching networks, and other antenna system components, with consequent freez-
ing, corrosion, and other adverse effects. Antennas, antenna systems, and related components shall be resistant to mois-
ture penetration when subjected to the rainfall rates and wind velocity specified in table 4.3.4-1 as determined in
accordance with Section 5.5.4.

TABLE 4.3.4-1. Rainfall performance requirements.

Duration Rainfall Rate Ambient Temperature Wind Velocity

1h 15 cm/h (5.9 in/h) 24 8C (75 8F) 64.8 km/h

(35 knots)

4.3.5 Humidity

Detrimental effects induced by high humidity environments may manifest themselves in various ways, for exam-
ple, the oxidation of metals, electrical shorts due to condensation, and degradation of electrical properties in insulating
materials. Antennas, antenna systems, and related components shall be capable of withstanding repeated sustained
relative humidities of 100 percent at the high and low temperature extremes cited in Sections 4.3.2 and 4.3.3 without
degradation of electrical performance or structural integrity as determined in accordance with Section 5.5.5.

5
4.3.6 Salt Fog

Antenna systems located in coastal areas are subject to the corrosive effects of salt air, resulting in the oxidation of
metals, electrical shorts due to condensation, and degradation of electrical properties in insulating materials. Antennas,
antenna systems, and related components shall be capable of withstanding repeated sustained exposure to salt fog
environments as determined in accordance with Section 5.5.6.

4.3.7 Sand and Dust

Penetration and accumulation of sand, dust, or blowing snow particles into connectors, seals, housings, etc., can
result in abrasion of electrical connections, failure of insulators, intermittent short circuits, etc. These effects can be
detrimental to the desired and necessary electrical and radiation performance of antenna systems. Antennas, antenna
systems, and related components shall be capable
of withstanding the effects of repeated exposure to sand, dust, and blowing snow as determined in accordance with
Section 5.5.7.

4.3.8 Icing/Freezing Rain

Icing and freezing rain greatly increases the structural weight and wind loads while adding no structural integrity
to the antenna or tower. Antenna systems and their supporting structures located in areas prone to ice build-up such
as the New England states, mid-Atlantic states, northern mid-west and northwest states, shall be certified by a
professional civil engineer as capable of withstanding 19 mm (3/4 in) thick ice glaze when subjected to the wind load
specified in Section 4.3.1.

4.4 Antenna Power Rating

The antenna shall meet the requirements of Sections 4.5 through 4.7 as determined by the tests described in Section
5.4.

4.5 Radiation Pattern

4.5.1 Vertical Plane (Elevation) Pattern

The gain for all angles of the vertical radiation pattern, measured in accordance with Section 5.4.3, shall be within
6 1.5 dB for the main lobe and 6 5 dB for the minor lobes of the gain specified by the manufacturer in accordance
with Section 4.2.e.

4.5.2 Horizontal Plane (Azimuthal) Pattern

The gain for all angles of the horizontal radiation pattern, measured in accordance with Section 5.4.3, shall be
within 6 1.5 dB for the main lobe and 6 5 dB for the minor lobes of the gain specified by the manufacturer in
accordance with Section 4.2.f. For omnidirectional antennas, the horizontal plane radiation pattern shall be within
6 1.5 dB throughout the full (3608) range in azimuth.

4.6 Voltage Standing Wave Ratio

The VSWR of the antenna, measured in accordance with Section 5.7, shall be 1.5 or less, referenced to a 50 V
system.

4.7 Radiation Hazard

Radiation hazard zones shall be identified by measurements performed in conformance with the provisions of
ANSI/IEEE C95.3-1991 [8]. Radiation hazard zones are those volumes of space surrounding the antenna where the
electromagnetic power density and/or field strengths exceed the industry recognized limits of ANSI/IEEE C95.1-1991
[9]. The radiation hazard zone shall be determined when transmitting at the antenna’s full power rating. For single
radiating frequencies, permissible limits of exposure are 1 mW/cm2 for VHF high-band antennas and ranging from
about 1.4 mW/cm2 to about 3.5 mW/cm2 for UHF and 800/900 MHz antennas. For VHF low-band antennas,

6
permissible limits of exposure are expressed in field strength rather than power density, and range from about 61.4 V/m
to about 80 V/m electric field strength. For multiple frequencies radiating simultaneously, the contribution from each
must be derated appropriately in accordance with the provisions of ANSI/IEEE C95.1-1991 [9].
Radiation hazard is not considered an “environmental” specification in the spirit of Section 4.3 and consequently
cannot be selectively applied or waived as can individual environmental specifications in that section. Determination of
radiation hazard zones is mandatory. Refer to ANSI/IEEE Standard C95.1-1991 [9] for recognized exposure levels and
detailed test procedures.

5. TEST METHODS

5.1 Standard Test Conditions

Unless otherwise specified, perform all electrical and radiation performance measurements at the standard test
frequencies under standard test conditions and ambient environmental conditions. Allow all measurement equipment to
warm up to achieve sufficient measurement stability to perform accurate and repeatable measurements.

5.1.1 Standard Test Frequencies

The standard test frequencies shall be three frequencies, one in the 0 to 10th percentile, one in the 45th to 55th
percentile, and one in the 90th to 100th percentile of the operating frequency range. Standard test frequencies for multi-
band antennas (e.g., 150 MHz/450 MHz) shall consist of standard test frequencies for each frequency band.

5.1.2 Standard Radiation Test Site

A standard radiation test site shall be used to measure relative gain and radiation patterns. The standard radiation
test site shall conform to the accepted industry standards and design principles stated in ANSI/IEEE STD 149-1979
(R1990) Section 4 [10] and FCC Report and Order 96-326 [11].
Outdoor ranges shall be free of large reflecting (especially metallic) objects, trees, electric/telephone poles and
overhead wires, fences, buried wires or pipes, buildings, or other objects which could perturb the illuminating line-of-
sight electromagnetic field for a minimum of 50 wavelengths or 100 m (328 ft), whichever is greater, from source and
test antenna. Buried utility lines or control cables should be at least 0.3 m (1 ft) beneath the surface. In most cases, the
ground should be level and exhibit uniform conductivity and permittivity characteristics. An exception to this policy is in
the case of an elevated range over irregular terrain [10] where the source and test antennas are affixed to support
structures located on adjacent mountain peaks or hilltops. For such ranges, however, additional design considerations
are necessary to ensure that any points of specular reflection are sufficiently suppressed so as not to distort the illumi-
nating line-of-sight electromagnetic field.
In any case, the amplitude and phase tapers of the wavefront illuminating the test antenna must be less than 0.25 dB
and 22.58 throughout the effective antenna volume of the antenna under test. Measured field probe data of the test range
shall be available to show compliance with these constraints. Site power delay profiles shall exhibit no multipath
components. For all types of outdoor ranges, the ambient rf noise levels should be carefully monitored to ensure that
they are at least 14 dB lower than the amplitude of the minimum measured signal strength.
Indoor ranges (anechoic chambers) are suitable for higher frequency measurements, typically to as low as 800
MHz, depending on the physical size of the chamber. Several different chamber designs are typical: rectangular, ta-
pered, and compact range. Design characteristics of these indoor ranges are summarized in ANSI/IEEE 149-1979
(R1990), Section 4.5.4 [10].

5.1.3 Standard Test Range

Outdoor test ranges may be of the following types: elevated range over flat surface, elevated range over irregular
terrain, elevated range with diffraction fences, ground reflection range, slant range, or compact range. Indoor test ranges
may be of the following types: rectangular, tapered, pyramidal, and may incorporate compact range design features.
Figures 5.1.3.1 through 5.1.3.9 depict these various types of ranges.

7
 FIGURE 5.1.3.1. Elevated range over flat surface, reprinted from IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990)
Copyright  1979, IEEE 3. All rights reserved. Used with permission.

FIGURE 5.1.3.2. Elevated range over irregular terrain. Minimize specular reflections by situating
specular rays in nulls or highly suppressed sidelobes of the antenna patterns, or by other suitable
technologies.

5.2 Instrumentation
The instrumentation described in this section is limited to the equipment that is most critical in making the
required measurements.

5.2.1 Signal Source

Frequency stability of at least 10–5 is usually acceptable, but for more precise measurements, frequency stability of
–6
10 or better may be necessary. Phase noise shall not exceed –120 dBc/Hz at 12.5 kHz or greater offset, where dBc
means decibels relative to carrier power. Transmitter power shall be sufficient to ensure that the minimum measurable
specified signal exceeds the ambient noise level by at least 14 dB.

5.2.2 Receiver

The receiver shall exhibit frequency stability equal to that of the transmitter, and shall be phase-locked to the
transmitter. A vector network analyzer may serve as suitable alternative to a dedicated phase-locked measurement
receiver and signal source. Input VSWR should not exceed 1.05 over the measurement frequency bands of interest and
the receiver’s frequency and power measurements capability shall be accurate to within 6 percent of true value. The
receiver’s frequency and power measurement accuracy shall be traceable to NIST calibration standards.

3
Figure 5.1.3.1 reprinted from IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990), “IEEE Standard Test Procedures for Antennas,” Copyright 1979 by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. The IEEE disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting from the placement and use in the described
manner. Information is reprinted with the permission of the IEEE.

8
 FIGURE 5.1.3.3. Example of 686-meter elevated range with diffraction fences, reprinted from IEEE Std
149-1979 (R1990) Copyright  1979, IEEE. 4 All rights reserved. Used with permission. Diffraction fences
are typically metallic screens with serrated top edges. Their purpose is to scatter electromagnetic energy that
would otherwise be reflected from the range surface toward the antenna under test.

FIGURE 5.1.3.4. Ground reflection range, reprinted from IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990) Copyright  1979, IEEE. 5
All rights reserved. Used with permission.

4
Figure 5.1.3.3 reprinted from IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990), “IEEE Standard Test Procedures for Antennas,” Copyright 1979 by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. The IEEE disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting from the placement and use in the described
manner. Information is reprinted with the permission of the IEEE.
5
Figure 5.1.3.4 reprinted from IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990), “IEEE Standard Test Procedures for Antennas,” Copyright 1979 by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. The IEEE disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting from the placement and use in the described
manner. Information is reprinted with the permission of the IEEE.

9
 FIGURE 5.1.3.6. Compact range, reprinted from
IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990) Copyright  1979,
FIGURE 5.1.3.5. Slant range, reprinted from IEEE Std 149-1979 IEEE. 7 All rights reserved. Used with permission.
(R1990) Copyright  1979, IEEE. 6 All rights reserved. Used with Range reflector collimates beam to minimize phase
permission. taper. Allows smaller range distance to antenna
under test than standard ranges.

FIGURE 5.1.3.7. Rectangular ane- FIGURE 5.1.3.8. Tapered ane- FIGURE 5.1.3.9. Compact range
choic chamber, reprinted from choic chamber, reprinted from anechoic chamber. See Fig.
IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990) IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990) 5.1.2.6 for plan review.
Copyright  1979, IEEE. 8 All Copyright  1979, IEEE. 9 All
rights reserved. Used with per- rights reserved. Used with per-
mission. mission.

6
Figure 5.1.3.5 reprinted from IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990), “IEEE Standard Test Procedures for Antennas,” Copyright 1979 by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. The IEEE disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting from the placement and use in the described
manner. Information is reprinted with the permission of the IEEE.
7
Figure 5.1.3.6 reprinted from IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990), “IEEE Standard Test Procedures for Antennas,” Copyright 1979 by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. The IEEE disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting from the placement and use in the described
manner. Information is reprinted with the permission of the IEEE.
8
Figure 5.1.3.7 reprinted from IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990), “IEEE Standard Test Procedures for Antennas,” Copyright 1979 by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. The IEEE disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting from the placement and use in the described
manner. Information is reprinted with the permission of the IEEE.
9
Figure 5.1.3.8 reprinted from IEEE Std 149-1979 (R1990), “IEEE Standard Test Procedures for Antennas,” Copyright 1979 by the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. The IEEE disclaims any responsibility or liability resulting from the placement and use in the described
manner. Information is reprinted with the permission of the IEEE.

10
5.2.3 Antenna Pattern Recorder

The antenna pattern recorder shall be such that it can reproduce patterns to within 6 0.2 dB accuracy. The
recorder should be of automated data acquisition design, however, so long as results can be displayed in tabular and
graphical form to within the required accuracy, manual collection systems are acceptable.

5.2.4 Power Meter

The power meter shall measure forward and reflected power in a 50 V system with full-scale uncertainty of
5 percent or less. It may be a through-line directional power meter, or two power meters attached to a directional
coupler, or as part of a vector network analyzer.

5.2.5 Reference Antennas

Either an adjustable half-wavelength standard dipole antenna or an EIA standard gain antenna [4] shall be
used for reference gain measurements. The standard dipole is described in Figure 5.2.5.1 whereas the EIA standard
gain antenna is described in Figure 5.2.5.2.

FIGURE 5.2.5.1. Adjustable half-wavelength cali-

brated dipole.

FIGURE 5.2.5.2. EIA reference gain antenna. See Table 5.2.5-1 for dimensions. See Jasik [12] for further infor-
mation on the split tube balun.

11
The standard dipole is omnidirectional (in azimuth) and has a gain of 0 dBd. The main lobe gain of the EIA standard
gain antenna is given in Tables 5.2.5-1 and 5.2.5-2.

Table 5.2.5-1. Dimensions for EIA reference gain antennas .

Band (MHz) Wavelength, l (mm) A (mm) B (mm) C (mm)

148–174 1875.0 41.1 17.45 38.38

406–450 701.0 22.1 7.92 17.45
450–512 622.0 22.1 7.92 17.45
800–960 343.0 7.9 4.75 10.44

Table 5.2.5-2. Gain of EIA reference gain antenna .

Band (MHz) Frequency (MHz) Gain (dBd)

148–174 148 7.5

160 7.7
174 8.0

406–450 406 7.6

428 7.7
450 7.9

450–512 450 7.5

481 7.7
512 7.9

800–960 800 7.5

882 7.7
960 8.0

5.3 Scale Model Measurements

Accurate radiation pattern and relative gain measurements are difficult to obtain for VHF low-band antennas
because of their physical size. Consequently, for these antennas, scale model techniques may be used. The parameters
that must be scaled include:

Ls = (L 6 1 %)/R
«s = «
ss = R s (2)
fs = Rf

where 1#R#6

R is the scale factor, L is the full-scale dimension, and Ls is the scaled dimension. Parameters « and s are the permittivity
and conductivity of any materials comprising the antenna, and their “s” subscript counterparts correspond to the scaled
model’s permittivity and conductivity. Also, f is the operating frequency and fs is the operating frequency for the scaled
model measurement.
It may be impractical to select a material for the scale model having an accurately scaled conductivity. In that case,
relative gain measurements cannot be performed on the scale model. However, radiation pattern and directivity
measurements can be measured. If the efficiency of the antenna can be established by other means, then the relative
power gain can be determined from the scale model antenna’s directivity measurement.

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5.4 Electrical and Radiation Performance Tests
5.4.1 Standing Wave Ratio (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio)

Voltage standing wave ratio may be determined by measuring the forward and reflected power and solving the
following equation:

VSWR = (ÏPf + ÏPr) / (ÏPf – ÏPr) (3)

where Pf is the forward measured power and Pr is the reverse, or reflected measured power. Many network analyzers
have provision for measuring and directly displaying VSWR in Cartesian or polar (Smith chart) form. If the line loss
between the antenna under test and the measurement device exceeds 0.5 dB, the measured VSWR must be corrected to
compensate for the line loss, which will otherwise make the antenna appear to have lower VSWR than it really has.
Ideally, the measurement device should be located at the antenna feed point.

5.4.2 Relative Antenna Gain Test

Relative antenna gain of the antenna under test is determined by illuminating a standard gain reference antenna
with an electromagnetic wave of a particular frequency, power, and polarization and measuring its voltage or power
delivered to a measurement device. This value is compared to that measured after replacing the standard gain reference
antenna with the antenna under test and illuminating it under the same conditions of frequency, power, and polarization
as before.

5.4.3 Radiation Pattern Test

The basic procedure for performing radiation pattern measurements is fully described in ANSI/IEEE STD 149-179
(R1990) [10] in various sections. The technique is illustrated in Figures 5.4.3.1 and 5.4.3.2. Essentially, the source and
test antennas are securely affixed to their respective supporting structures in such a way that their mutual polarization
is as desired, usually co-polarized. As the antenna under test is rotated in the plane of rotation (see Fig. 5.4.3.1) or about
its axis (see Fig. 5.4.3.2), a line-of-sight ray originating from the source antenna traces out a path along an imaginary
sphere which surrounds the test antenna and rotates with it. This defines the plane of the radiation pattern cut. The
voltage or power response of the antenna under test at each angular orientation is mapped to a radial distance as a
function of the angle in this plane. This gives an indication of the antenna pattern, or radiation pattern, which shows
the response of the antenna to an electromagnetic wave incident from some prescribed direction.

FIGURE 5.4.3.1. Example of an elevation plane radiation pattern measurement at a slant range.

13
 FIGURE 5.4.3.2. Example of an azimuth plane radiation pattern measurement at a slant range.

5.4.4 Rated Power Test

Affix the antenna to its host platform or mock-up thereof at a suitable standard radiation test site. Measure antenna
VSWR at each standard test frequency to establish a performance baseline. Apply rated full continuous wave power
at each of the standard test frequencies for a minimum of 4 h per frequency. At the conclusion of each application of
full rated power, measure VSWR to determine performance degradation, if any. VSWR should read within 6 5 percent
of performance baseline. Visually inspect the antenna for physical damage.

5.5 Environmental Test Methods

Procedures for conducting the environmental tests described below are detailed in MIL STD 810E [7] under the
applicable methods identified herein. Where in situ “operational” environmental testing of an item is impractical
because of the size and/or cost of its host platform, the test items may be installed on mock-ups of its host platform.
For example, vehicular antennas may be mounted on ground planes approximating the size of a vehicle roof, or base
station antennas may be mounted on single tower sections.
In order to establish baseline performance characteristics, and also to reject defective items before committing the
effort to perform environmental performance tests, electrical and radiation performance tests shall be conducted at
ambient test conditions (Sec. 3.1) prior to exposing the test items to the environmental tests specified herein. At the
conclusion of each environmental test, electrical and radiation performance tests shall be conducted at ambient
conditions to ensure that the test item has not degraded.
Whereas the antennas under test must meet all the electrical and radiation performance specifications cited in this
document at ambient conditions, the environmental performance specifications stated herein should be selectively
applied according to the anticipated operating environment of the antenna. That is, the antenna need only comply with
those environmental specifications not waived by the procuring agency. The test methods described below provide an
industry-recognized, standardized, and measurable techniques to quantify antenna performance against various envi-
ronmental stress factors.

5.5.1 Wind Load Rating

Antenna systems, in particular antenna towers, shall be capable of withstanding repeated sustained wind loads 1.65
times that specified in Chapter 16 of TIA/EIA-222F [5], without degradation of electrical performance or structural
integrity. Ice loading requirements of Section 4.3.8 may apply. Antenna structures and tower designs, including
payload, shall be certified by a professional civil engineer to withstand the subject wind loads and shall conform with
all local building codes.

14
5.5.2 High Temperature/Solar Radiation

Use MIL STD 810E, Method 505.3, Procedure II [7]. Test item shall be subjected to a minimum of three test
cycles. Applied temperature and radiance variation within an individual cycle shall conform to those listed in Table
505.3-I (Basic Hot) and Figure 505.3-2 of MIL STD 810E [7]. If the antenna system will be deployed in the southwest-
ern United States, the temperature/radiance conditions specified in Table 505.3-I (Hot-Dry) and Figure 505.3-2 of MIL
STD 810E [7] shall apply instead. All performance tests are waived during high temperature/ solar radiation cycling
except VSWR, which shall be conducted at each temperature step of each cycle. At the conclusion of the temperature
cycling, visually inspect the test items for physical damage or degradation.

5.5.3 Low Temperature

Use MIL STD 810E [7], Method 502.3, Procedure II. Test item shall be subjected to a minimum of three test
cycles. Applied temperature and humidity variation within an individual cycle shall conform to those listed in Tables X
(Ambient) (CONUS and Alaska coastal regions) or XII (Ambient) (southwestern Alaska) of MIL STD 210C [6]. For
deployment in northeastern regions of Alaska, the test item shall be subjected to the constant temperature specified in
Section 4.3.3 for a like period of time. All performance tests are waived during low temperature exposure except
VSWR, which shall be conducted at each temperature step of each cycle. At the conclusion of the low temperature
testing, visually inspect the test items for physical damage or degradation.

5.5.4 Blowing Rain

Use MIL STD 810E, Method 506.3, Procedure I [7]. Test item shall be subjected to conditions specified in Section
4.3.4, Table 4.3.4-1 above. All performance tests are waived during blowing rain exposure except VSWR, which shall be
conducted just prior to cessation of this test. At the conclusion of blowing rain testing, visually inspect the test items for
physical damage, leakage, or degradation.

5.5.5 Humidity

Use MIL STD 810E, Method 507.3, Procedure III [7]. All performance tests are waived during aggravated humid-
ity exposure except VSWR, which shall be conducted during the fifth and tenth humidity cycles of this test. At the
conclusion of humidity testing, visually inspect the test items for physical damage, leakage, or degradation.

5.5.6 Salt Fog

Use MIL STD 810E, Method 509.3, Procedure I [7]. Cycle the test article to alternating 24 h periods of salt fog
exposure and standard ambient drying for a minimum of four 24 h periods. All performance tests are waived during salt
fog exposure. At the conclusion of salt fog testing, visually inspect the test items for physical damage, corrosion, or
degradation.

5.5.7 Sand and Dust

Use MIL STD 810E, Method 510.3, Procedures I and II [7]. All performance tests are waived during sand and dust
exposure. At the conclusion of salt fog testing, visually inspect the test items for physical damage, erosion of surfaces,
or degradation.

5.5.8 Icing/Freezing Rain

Use MIL STD 810E, Method 521.1, Procedure I [7]. All performance tests are waived during icing exposure. At
the conclusion of icing testing, visually inspect the test items for physical damage.

5.6 Radiation Hazard

Radiation hazard is not considered an “environmental” test in the spirit of Section 5.5 and consequently cannot
be selectively applied or waived as can individual environmental tests in that section. Determination of the spatial
boundaries of the radiation hazard zone when the antenna is operated at its fully rated output power is a mandatory
requirement. Refer to ANSI/IEEE Standards C95.1-1991 and C95.3-1991 [8,9] for permissible exposure levels and
detailed test procedures.
15
 APPENDIX A2 REFERENCES

[1] NIJ Standard-0204.01, Standard for Fixed and Base Station Antennas, December 1981, National Institute of
Justice.
[2] NTIA Manual of Regulations and Procedures for Federal Frequency Management, Stock No. 903-008-00000-8,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Superintendent of Documents, Washington, DC.
[3] ANSI/IEEE 145-1993, IEEE Standard Definitions of Terms for Antennas.
[4] TIA/EIA 329-B10, Minimum Standards for Communications Antennas, Part I—Base Station Antennas.
[5] TIA/EIA 222-F10, Structural Standards for Steel Antenna Towers and Antenna Supporting Structures.
[6] MIL STD 210C, Climatic Information to Determine Design and Test Requirements for Military Systems and
Equipment.
[7] MIL STD 810E, Environmental Test Methods and Engineering Guidelines.
[8] ANSI/IEEE C95.3-1991, IEEE Standard Recommended Practice for the Measurement of Potentially Hazardous
Electromagnetic Fields—RF and Microwave.
[9] ANSI/IEEE C95.1-1991, IEEE Standard for Safety Levels with Respect to Human Exposure to Radio Frequency
Electromagnetic Fields, 3 kHz to 300 GHz.
[10] ANSI/IEEE 149-1979 (R1990), IEEE Standard Test Procedures for Antennas.
[11] Federal Communications Commission Report and Order 96-326 (1996 Aug. 1) “Guidelines for Evaluating the
Environmental Effects of Radio Frequency Radiation.”
[12] Jasik, H., Antenna Engineering Handbook, Sec. 31.6, McGraw-Hill, 1961.

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