2022/09/19 by Jens Zander, Zander, Jens
Computer Science · Physics and Astronomy · #Bluetooth and Wireless Communication Technologies #FOS: Electrical engineering #Radio Astronomy Observations and Technology #Signal Processing (eess.SP) #electronic engineering #information engineering
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.2209.08989
openalex publication_date 2022/09/19 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
Determining the efficiency of an HF-antenna by measurements requires is a complex procedure involving expensive equipment, calibrated instruments for field strengths. In this paper we evaluate a simple, inexpensive method to determine the relative efficiency of an antenna relative a reference antenna. The method uses the Weak Signal Propagation Reporter(WSPR) network of receivers that are located all over the world. These receivers report the estimated signal-to-noise ratio of received beacon signals to the WSPR.net database where the data can be retrieved (almost) in real time. In the paper we analyze the method, estimate its accuracy and discuss advantages and limitations. Some preliminary measurement results are presented.