The bi-conical microwave assembly exhibits two conical conductors, driven by active charge that produces a magnetic field at the center of the structure. The conductors have a common axis and the alternating cones face in opposite directions. These systems are also called broad-band dipole assemblies, and produce a wide bandwidth able to create up to 40 gigahertz (GHz).
The Spiral microwave assembly is based on a radial configuration wrapped around a single-plane. These systems are sometimes referred to as planar (flat) assemblies. These designs offer a wide frequency range from 0.5 - 18 GHz. Because of the efficiency of the design, these systems are perfect for small footprint products, and easily placed in, or on a host of platforms including those associated with aircraft, marine or civilian industrial products.
The Horn microwave assembly is based on a pyramidal or conical structure. This configuration can be square or rectangular in the case of the pyramidal design or a pure conical shape. The horn is directly mated to the front aperture of what is referred to as the "wave guide." These systems are most often found on short-range systems such as hand-held traffic RADAR guns producing signal frequencies of 0.5 to 18 GHz.
This configuration is typically seen on commercial rooftops exhibiting a diameter of 1 meter (3.2 feet) to 0.5 meter (18 inches.) These systems are typically used as repeater components to create a short-range wireless connection between buildings. Uses in this case include campus, or headquarters complexes. Frequencies for these systems can range from 0.5 GHz to 10 GHz.
These systems were designed in the 1950s by G.A. Deschamps to develop an antenna surface that was pliable and conformable regardless of the mounting structure. The obvious advantage is that these antennas can be installed anywhere, but other advantages exist. These include low fabrication costs, easy replication and the fact that individual small sections can be quickly created and integrated to make a larger array. Unfortunately, they are not unable to handle significant bandwidth, nor can they produce much power, although current developments suggest that scientific progression is being made.