PMM BC-01 Dual-Conical Antenna

Overview

The PMM BC-01 Dual-Conical Antenna is a broadband, biconical antenna engineered for precise electromagnetic field generation and reception in the 30–200 MHz frequency range. Based on the fundamental principle of symmetric dual-cone geometry, it operates as a balanced, center-fed dipole structure where the conical conductors provide inherently wideband impedance matching without discrete tuning elements. This architecture enables stable radiation patterns, consistent phase response, and minimal group delay variation across its operational bandwidth—critical attributes for radiated emissions testing, immunity validation, and field probe calibration in accordance with CISPR 16-1-4, ANSI C63.4, and IEC 61000-4-3. The BC-01 is designed for repeatable use in semi-anechoic chambers (SACs), open-area test sites (OATS), and standardized immunity test setups where traceable field uniformity and polarization stability are required.

Key Features

• Broadband performance from 30 MHz to 200 MHz with VSWR ≤2.5:1 across the entire band, ensuring efficient power transfer and minimal reflected energy during emission or immunity testing.
• Robust mechanical construction using corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy elements and UV-stabilized fiberglass support structures, rated for continuous outdoor and chamber-based operation between −40 °C and +70 °C.
• Integrated N-type female connector with gold-plated contacts for low insertion loss (<0.15 dB typical) and long-term mating reliability under repeated connection cycles.
• Linear polarization with symmetrical E-plane and H-plane patterns; usable in both vertical and horizontal orientations without mechanical reconfiguration.
• High peak power handling capability (5 kW pulsed, 1 kW CW) supports compliance testing per IEC 61000-4-3 Level 3–5 immunity requirements.
• RoHS-compliant materials and CE marking confirm adherence to EU electromagnetic compatibility and environmental directives.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The BC-01 is compatible with all standard RF signal generators, power amplifiers, spectrum analyzers, and EMI receivers equipped with 50 Ω N-type interfaces. It is routinely deployed in accredited laboratories performing EN 55032, EN 55035, MIL-STD-461G RS103, and DO-160 Section 20 radiated susceptibility tests. Its radiation characteristics have been verified against reference antennas per CISPR 16-1-6, and its calibration data—including antenna factor (AF), correction factors, and pattern deviation envelopes—is supplied with NIST-traceable uncertainty budgets. The antenna meets mechanical and electrical requirements for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited EMC testing facilities and supports full auditability under GLP and GMP-aligned quality systems.

Software & Data Management

While the BC-01 is a passive transducer requiring no embedded firmware or driver software, its integration into automated test systems is fully supported via industry-standard SCPI command sets when paired with compatible RF sources and measurement receivers. Calibration files (in .af format) are provided for direct import into EMC test software platforms including EMCO’s EMTEST Suite, Keysight PathWave EDA, and TESEQ’s Teseq Control Center. All delivered calibration certificates include full metadata: date of calibration, environmental conditions, traceability path to national standards (e.g., INRIM, PTB), and expanded uncertainty (k=2) for antenna factor across the 30–200 MHz span. Digital records comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when stored within validated document management systems.

Applications

• Radiated emissions precompliance and full compliance testing per CISPR, FCC Part 15, and EN standards.
• Radiated immunity testing up to 10 V/m (with appropriate amplifier), supporting IEC 61000-4-3 and automotive ISO 11452-2 protocols.
• Field uniformity verification in 3 m and 10 m SACs per ANSI C63.4 Annex D and CISPR 16-1-4 Clause 7.3.
• Reference antenna applications in inter-laboratory comparison studies and metrological validation of field probes.
• EMI troubleshooting and near-field scanning support when used with time-domain reflectometry (TDR) or vector network analyzers for impedance characterization.

FAQ

Is the BC-01 suitable for both emission and immunity testing?
Yes—the BC-01 is bidirectional and certified for use in both radiated emissions measurements and radiated immunity test configurations, provided amplifier and receiver specifications meet applicable standards.
What calibration documentation is included?
Each unit ships with a NIST-traceable calibration certificate reporting antenna factor (dB/m), correction factors, VSWR, and pattern symmetry data across 30–200 MHz, with uncertainties stated per ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines.
Can the antenna be mounted on a turntable or positioning system?
Yes—it features standardized 1/4″-20 and 3/8″-16 threaded mounting interfaces at the base plate, compatible with most commercial antenna positioners and mast adapters.
Does PMM offer on-site recalibration services?
PMM authorizes select ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration laboratories in North America, EMEA, and APAC to perform periodic recalibration; service intervals are recommended every 24 months or after physical impact.
Is the BC-01 compliant with military and aerospace testing standards?
Yes—it has been validated for use in MIL-STD-461G RS103 (radiated susceptibility) and DO-160G Section 20 testing environments, subject to system-level amplifier and field uniformity validation.