Electromagnetic Theory
H-Plane
The plane containing the magnetic field vector (H-field) and the direction of maximum radiation of an antenna, perpendicular to the E-plane
Understanding H-Plane
In a rectangular waveguide, the H-plane is the broad wall plane. H-plane bends curve the waveguide in this plane, maintaining the broad wall orientation. The H-plane radiation pattern of an antenna shows the beamwidth in the magnetic field direction.
| Antenna Type | Gain (dBi) | Beamwidth | Bandwidth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dipole | 2.1 | 360° (H) | Moderate (~10%) |
| Patch | 5-8 | 60-90° | Narrow (2-5%) |
| Horn | 10-25 | 10-60° | Wide (>50%) |
| Parabolic | 25-45 | 1-10° | Wide |
H-plane components include H-plane tees (shunt tees), H-plane bends, and H-plane sectoral horns. The H-plane pattern is typically wider than the E-plane pattern for rectangular aperture antennas.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an H-plane bend?
An H-plane bend curves the waveguide in the plane of the broad wall (H-field plane), changing signal direction while maintaining polarization.
How does the H-plane differ from the E-plane?
The H-plane contains the magnetic field vector, while the E-plane contains the electric field vector. They are perpendicular to each other.
See Also