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Full-Wave Loop

Loop Antennas

A loop one wavelength in circumference with gain and low noise.

Band: HF
Gain: ~3-4 dBi
Polarization: Horizontal or vertical (feed dependent)

Photos

Real-world photo of a Full-Wave Loop in use — Real-world example. Source: Wikimedia Commons (CC0; uhoh).

Radiation / wave patterns

Idealized radiation pattern of the Full-Wave Loop — Idealized azimuth radiation pattern (illustrative, generated). Radial scale in dB.

How & why it works

A full-wave loop—square, triangular (delta), or round—has a circumference of about one wavelength, so a full standing wave fits around it. This makes it a resonant, relatively low-impedance antenna (around 100-130 ohms) with a couple of dB more gain than a dipole and a slightly higher radiation angle that favours nearer contacts. Being a closed loop, it tends to pick up less local electrical noise, which receivers appreciate on the low bands.

Real-world uses

Low-noise HF receiving and transmitting, NVIS regional work, and quiet home stations.