Dual Circular Polarized Feed Antenna 8 dBi Typ. Gain, 26.5-40GHz Frequency Range RM-DCPFA2640-8

A feed antenna, commonly referred to simply as a “feed,” is the core component in a reflector antenna system that radiates electromagnetic energy towards the primary reflector or collects energy from it. It is itself a complete antenna (e.g., a horn antenna), but its performance directly determines the efficiency of the overall antenna system.

Its primary function is to effectively “illuminate” the main reflector. Ideally, the feed’s radiation pattern should precisely cover the entire reflector surface without spillover to achieve maximum gain and lowest side lobes. The phase center of the feed must be accurately positioned at the focal point of the reflector.

The key advantage of this component is its role as the “gateway” for energy exchange; its design directly impacts the system’s illumination efficiency, cross-polarization levels, and impedance matching. Its main drawback is its complex design, requiring precise matching with the reflector. It is widely used in reflector antenna systems such as satellite communications, radio telescopes, radar, and microwave relay links.