Hi,
I'm trying to import a 2x2 patch antenna pattern from FEKO (POSTFEKO v2025.1) into WinProp (ProMan) as a .ffe file, but the results are incorrect.
Situation:
- In FEKO/POSTFEKO, the main beam is pointing in the Z-axis direction (upward), with a Total Gain of about 13-17 dBi
- I exported the far field as a 3D_pattern .ffe file (Spherical coordinate system, Theta: 0°~88°, Phi: 0°~360°)
- When I import it into WinProp and click "Show", the Vertical Pattern shows the main beam at around 0°, which looks correct
Problem:
- The received power at the target location is about -111 dBm, which is much lower than when using an omnidirectional antenna (0 dBi) at the same location which gives -8 dBm
- A 13 dBi directional antenna should outperform a 0 dBi omni, but the result is the opposite
What I've tried:
- Various Azimuth and Downtilt combinations
- Rotating the FEKO model and re-exporting
- Modifying Theta values in the .ffe file directly
Question:
Is there a correct way to import a FEKO .ffe file into WinProp so that the antenna pattern is oriented correctly? Is there any coordinate system transformation needed?
Thank you.
