From b25357b32524a469ca24ad2817e4f151eced265a Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: =?UTF-8?q?Jakub=20K=C3=A1kona?= Date: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 00:17:49 +0100 Subject: [PATCH] Improved readme documentation. --- README.md | 64 +++++++++++++++++++++++------------ hw/sch_pcb/QFHBAL01.kicad_prl | 7 ++-- 2 files changed, 45 insertions(+), 26 deletions(-) diff --git a/README.md b/README.md index 32d223c..7b6a11f 100644 --- a/README.md +++ b/README.md @@ -1,36 +1,56 @@ -# QFHBAL01 - Antenna interface and balun +# QFHBAL01 - Antenna Interface and Balun -[Balun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balun) for QFH antennas +The **QFHBAL01** module is an [antenna interface and balun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balun) designed for QFH (Quadrifilar Helix) antennas, supporting right-hand (RHCP) and left-hand circular polarizations (LHCP). This module enables efficient impedance matching and balanced transmission in QFH antenna configurations. ![QFH antenna balun](/doc/src/img/QFHBAL01.png) -## Mechanical drawing +## Key Features -![QFHBAL01 Dimensions](/doc/src/img/dimensions.png) +- **Polarization**: RHCP and LHCP +- **Frequency Range**: 4.5 - 3000 MHz +- **Insertion Loss**: 2 dB typical +- **Amplitude Balance**: ±1 dB +- **Phase Balance**: ±20° +- **Power Rating**: 250 mW max RF, 30 mA max DC +- **Operating Temperature**: -55 °C to +85 °C +- **Dimensions**: Diameter 32 mm, Height 20 mm +- **Weight**: 10 g +## Transformer Mounting Options -## Electrical interface +The **ETC1-1-13** transformer on the QFHBAL01 module can be soldered onto the PCB in two configurations: + +1. **Galvanic Isolation**: Isolates the antenna from the RF line, enhancing protection for the receiver input but potentially increasing insertion loss slightly. +2. **Direct Galvanic Connection**: Connects the antenna directly to the RF line without isolation, minimizing insertion loss but offering less protection for the receiver input. + +These configurations allow customization based on application requirements for input protection and insertion loss. + +### Balun Polarization and Connection ![Balun connection](https://uuki.kapsi.fi/pix/qha/qha-diagram_medium.png) -| Helices | Feedpoint | Radiation | Polarization | -| ------------- |:-------------:| ----- | ----- | -| Left-hand | Standard | Upward | RHCP -| Right-hand | Anti-standard | Upward | LHCP -| Left-hand | Anti-standard | Downward | RHCP -| Right-hand | Standard | Downward | LHCP +| Helices | Feedpoint | Radiation | Polarization | +|-------------|----------------|-----------|--------------| +| Left-hand | Standard | Upward | RHCP | +| Right-hand | Anti-standard | Upward | LHCP | +| Left-hand | Anti-standard | Downward | RHCP | +| Right-hand | Standard | Downward | LHCP | + +*Source: [QHA Simulation](https://uuki.kapsi.fi/qha_simul.html)* + +## Schematic and Mechanical Drawing + +- [Schematic (PDF)](/doc/gen/QFHBAL01-schematic.pdf) +- [Mechanical Drawing (PDF)](/doc/src/img/dimensions.png) -[source](https://uuki.kapsi.fi/qha_simul.html) +### ETC1-1-13 Transformer Specifications +The **ETC1-1-13** transformer offers a 1:1 impedance ratio suitable for balanced RF transmission: -### Main Parameters +- **Frequency Range**: 4.5 - 3000 MHz +- **Insertion Loss**: 0.32 dB typical, max 3.5 dB at high frequencies +- **Amplitude Balance**: ±1 dB +- **Phase Balance**: ±20° +- **Power Rating**: 250 mW max +- **Operating Temperature**: -55°C to +85°C - * Polarization configurations: RHCP, LHCP - * Insertion Loss 2 dB - * Amplitude balance +/- 1 dB - * Phase Balance +/- 20 degree (°) - * Maximum RF power 250 mW (+23 dBm) - * Maximum DC current 30 mA - * Operating Temperature -55 °C to +85 °C - * Dimensions: 32mm diameter 20mm height (including RF connector) - * Weight 10 g diff --git a/hw/sch_pcb/QFHBAL01.kicad_prl b/hw/sch_pcb/QFHBAL01.kicad_prl index 25eea51..c25273a 100644 --- a/hw/sch_pcb/QFHBAL01.kicad_prl +++ b/hw/sch_pcb/QFHBAL01.kicad_prl @@ -1,7 +1,7 @@ { "board": { - "active_layer": 41, - "active_layer_preset": "", + "active_layer": 0, + "active_layer_preset": "All Layers", "auto_track_width": true, "hidden_netclasses": [], "hidden_nets": [], @@ -40,7 +40,6 @@ 9, 10, 11, - 12, 13, 14, 15, @@ -61,7 +60,7 @@ 37, 38 ], - "visible_layers": "ffcffff_ffffffff", + "visible_layers": "fffffff_ffffffff", "zone_display_mode": 0 }, "git": {