Half-Power Beamwidth (HPBW), or more commonly referred to as just 'beamwidth' is a simple metric used to describe the dominant direction of radiation, which helps RF engineers quickly assess suitability based on required transmission/reception aperture.
Two figures are provided on all antenna datasheets; Elevation Beamwidth, and Azimuth Beamwidth, representing both vertical and horizontal planes. The terms vertical and horizontal can be used interchangeably, however it is important to note that E-Plane and H-Plane cannot as they refer to the electric and magnetic field vectors (dependent on polarisation).
Definition of Half-Power Beamwidth
The 3 dB, or half-power, beamwidth of the antenna is defined as the angular width of the radiation pattern, including beam peak maximum, between points 3 dB down from maximum beam level (beam peak).
Specification Definition
When disclosing beamwidth on test reports and datasheets, Powertec follow the BASTA reporting recommendations. BASTA define the reporting of HPBW per the following specification:
- Typical (mean) value in degrees
- Tolerance in degrees
- Double-sided statistical parameter
- Calculated from the co-polar pattern.
- This parameter is to be defined for the nominal subbands in a broadband antenna. Unless otherwise noted it will be assumed the specification is for the full electrical downtilt range, and for all the ports associated with each frequency subband of the antenna.
- Separate beamwidth to be disclosed for azimuth and elevation.
Testing & Reporting
Azimuth and elevation beamwidths are calculated through measurement of the antenna co-polar radiation pattern. Radiation patterns are measured by rotating an actively transmitting antenna inside an anechoic chamber, and measuring power levels at set intervals.
The angle from which power level is -3 dB down either side of the maximum power level (i.e., inclusive of beam peak) is defined as the antenna half power beamwidth. IEC 60835-2-2 defines appropriate test methodology.
References
NGMN, "Recommendations on Base Station Antenna Standards", NGMN Alliance, N-P-BASTA v11.1, Mar. 2019.