Any grapth utility program that can plot graph with spherical coordinates?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the use of EZNEC, a software tool for plotting antenna patterns using spherical coordinates (R, θ, φ). The free version of EZNEC allows users to analyze simple antenna configurations with a limit of 20 segments, making it suitable for basic studies. Users can generate 2D plots by fixing either θ or φ and varying the other angle, which aids in visualizing R against the angle. The program is user-friendly and capable of calculating radiation patterns in vertical, azimuth, or 3D formats without requiring complex mathematical input.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of spherical coordinates (R, θ, φ)
  • Basic knowledge of antenna theory and patterns
  • Familiarity with software installation and usage
  • Concept of standing wave ratio (SWR) in antenna systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore advanced features of EZNEC commercial versions for complex antenna designs
  • Learn about antenna segmenting techniques for improved accuracy in modeling
  • Research the impact of different feed point configurations on radiation patterns
  • Investigate alternative software tools for antenna modeling, such as 4NEC2 or MMANA-GAL
USEFUL FOR

Antenna engineers, radio frequency (RF) enthusiasts, and anyone interested in antenna pattern analysis will benefit from this discussion.

yungman
Messages
5,741
Reaction score
291
I want to study antenna patterns of different arrangements. I am looking for a very cheap software ( free is even better) to plot graph if I provide the \;R,\theta,\phi.

Even if 2D plot would be helpful like keeping either \;\theta\;\hbox { or }\; \phi\; constant and vary the other angle to plot the 2D graph of R vs the angle would be very helpful.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
If you would like to study antennas, you might like to try EZNEC.

This program is available in a free version, which has some limits, but the program is still amazing.
www.eznec.com
Look for the DEMO version.
This program has a deceptively simple main screen in a small window, but persist for a while and you will see why this is an extremely popular program.

It works on a system of WIRES which can be actual wires or they might be pipes or large pieces of metal.

You just tell it where these wires are in space and where you would like to feed one or more of the wires with radio frequency power and it works out the resulting transmit pattern. You don't have to give it any maths as it can work all that out by itself.
The radiation pattern can be vertical, azimuth (horizontal) or 3D.

You can get resonance information by using the SWR (standing wave ratio) graphing.

It divides the wires up into segments. The center of a segment is regarded as the radiating point for the whole length of the segment. It is also a possible feed point.
The free version allows you 20 segments.
This is plenty for simple antennas, but limiting for complex systems.
The commercial versions allow you hundreds of segments, but you have to pay for those. Definitely worth it if you get serious about antennas.
 
Thanks a lot for the info.

Alan
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
6K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
9K
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K