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Corner Reflector

Reflector Antennas Microwave UHF Directional

A dipole in front of a V-shaped reflector for moderate, simple gain.

Band: UHF to SHF
Gain: ~10-15 dBi
Polarization: Linear (driven element)

Photos

Real-world photo of a Corner Reflector in use — Real-world example. Source: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0; Tennen-Gas).

Radiation / wave patterns

New to these diagrams? How to read a radiation pattern →

Radiation pattern of the Corner Reflector — Reflector behind the driven element throws a forward lobe in the direction it faces.

How & why it works

A corner reflector places a driven dipole in front of two flat conducting panels joined at an angle (typically 90 degrees). Image theory shows the corner produces multiple in-phase reflected images of the dipole, which combine to push energy forward and substantially raise gain over a plain dipole. It is simpler and more broadband than a dish and is effective from UHF through low microwave frequencies.

Real-world uses

UHF point-to-point links, radar reflectors, and base-station sector antennas.