Ham Radio General Class Practice Test

What is the primary use of a Yagi antenna compared to a log periodic antenna?

1. Higher gain

2. Wider bandwidth

3. Better harmonics performance

4. Easier construction

The correct answer is: Higher gain

The primary use of a Yagi antenna is higher gain. Yagi antennas are designed with a specific configuration of elements which includes a driven element, one or more directors, and a reflector. This design enables Yagi antennas to achieve significant directional gain, making them highly effective for long-distance (DX) communication. The increased gain allows for better signal reception and transmission in a particular direction compared to other antenna types. This characteristic is crucial for amateur radio operators who often work to establish communications over vast distances, as a strong directional focus helps in accessing weak signals and improving overall communication quality. In contrast, antennas like the log periodic have wider bandwidths, allowing them to operate effectively over a broader range of frequencies, but do not match the gain performance of a Yagi at a specific frequency. Other antenna types may prioritize ease of construction or performance in harmonics, but the Yagi’s advantage lies in its ability to provide higher gain, making it a preferred choice for targeted communication applications.