Analysis of hybrid-mode feed horns with simulated dielectrics material

While corrugated horns have been the dominant type of hybrid-mode horns used to date, considerable interest has developed in the dielectric-loaded horn. Here, the hybrid mode is supported by the dielectric material which almost fills the interior of the (smooth-walled) horn except for the ´gap´ /spl tau/, which is chosen to optimize the performance of the horn. This parameter is not critical and the gap need not be air, as a dielectric material can be used provided it has a lower permittivity, /spl epsiv//sub r/, than that of the material in the main body of the horn. The value of /spl tau/ is dependent on the relative permittivities between these two materials.<>