K0UO Outdoor Antenna Test Range Facility for Measurement Testing in the Far Field
- skylarkcolo
- Nov 1, 2024
- 24 min read
Updated: 6 hours ago
The K0UO Antenna Test Facility ATF far-field range site and 4KS Walz airport offer a real-world learning environment in Kansas for STEM antenna projects. If your school or university has a research STEM program for antennas or aerospace, contact me. Building and experimenting can aid learning and development.
The antenna range is a controlled testing environment used to measure and evaluate the performance of antennas. Known as "The K0UO & RSI Corp Antenna University" in the Fraunhofer zone (Far Field), and is an accredited wireless outdoor testing range laboratory
Efficiency, Flexibility, Reliability
Measuring the simulated RF radiation pattern of the antenna is essential to understand its performance at your location, involving crucial steps for precise assessment and analysis.
The scientific method serves as the foundation for all RFR antenna pattern testing activities at the K0UO test range. All surveys and tests must first be subjected to the rigorous processes of the scientific method.
Modern programs using NEC2/NEC4 model RF absorption in the ground (Electrical Conductivity) under antennas with the Sommerfeld-Norton ground model. Older models inadequately address loss and ground reflections at low angles. Skywave signals form through antenna-ground interactions within 1 to 5 wavelengths in the Fraunhofer zone (Far Field). Ground losses affect some antennas more than others, and surrounding objects like buildings, trees, and fences in the near field also significantly impact performance, which models may not accurately depict.
Real-world patterns might not align with theoretical models, unless you've tested the ground's electrical conductivity and the model incorporates that data.
I model all my antennas using NEC5 and HFTA (High Frequency Terrain Analysis) to evaluate the take of angle of the various antennas over real ground.
Simulations provide a theoretical framework to approximate antenna performance using algorithms to predict behavior under conditions like frequency and polarization. However, they can't account for real-world variables such as nearby structures, terrain variations, and electromagnetic interference, which can affect performance.
After simulations, conduct field measurements of the RF radiation pattern.
This involves using equipment like an RF field strength meter or spectrum analyzer with calibrated antennas to capture emitted signals. By positioning the equipment at various locations and angles, you can gather data on the antenna's energy radiation in different directions, including gain and radiation pattern.
The K0UO amateur antenna range, and testing site has the use of over 1200 acres around the main antennas and ranges, which are either owned, leased permission, or deeded right of ways (ROW), for far field measurements. It parallels the 4KS Walz airport making, it over 2500 feet for one of the far field ranges, using a portable tower and drones loaded with standardized calibrated RF, EME, and field strength survey instruments (used for DOD, Ham, and Commercial wireless telecommunication antennas). The K0UO is a highly technical facility used to precisely measure an antenna's performance characteristics, such as its radiation pattern and gain.
K0UO has significant real estate or so anechoic chambers are not needed. both Near field and Far field testing is conducted at this site in Kansas
The data from these measurements is invaluable, allowing visualization of the radiation pattern in polar plots or 3D visualizations. This reveals the main lobes where the antenna is most effective and any nulls or reduced signal areas, crucial for optimizing coverage and minimizing interference in wireless communication. Additionally, measuring the RF radiation pattern can identify discrepancies between simulated results and actual performance due to factors like physical installation, nearby objects, and environmental variations. Understanding these differences is essential for refining antenna design and improving system performance.
In summary, the act of measuring the RF radiation pattern is not merely a technical requirement; it is a vital process that informs you about the antenna's real-world effectiveness and efficiency at your location. It bridges the gap between theoretical predictions and practical applications, ultimately leading to better system design, enhanced performance, and more reliable communication networks.
The primary purpose of an outdoor test range is to provide a dedicated and controlled area for the testing and evaluation of systems and technologies under realistic conditions. This is particularly crucial when laboratory simulations and indoor testing are insufficient to capture the complexities of real-world environments.
RF near and far field testing following many protocol like IEEE-299, MIL-STD-285, NSA 65-6, CTIA CATL certification testing along with: Probe symmetry and amplitude ripple measurements.
RSI can do Technical writing to USAF T.O., A DOD, Army TM, NAVAIR standards, Motorola, IEC 1082, and other commercial standards
The K0UO amateur ham radio and commercial antenna range Antenna Test Facility ATF, is in an electromagnetically-quiet area, and testing site has the use of over a 1200 acres around the main antennas for far field measurements, using a portable tower or drone loaded with calibrated RF, EME, power density, field strength, and non-ionizing radiation survey instruments, (also has been used for DOD and Commercial measurements).
Antenna range testing is crucial for ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and even regulatory compliance of antenna systems. By providing precise performance measurements and reducing interference, antenna ranges contribute to the development of high quality antennas for modern communication networks. As technology evolves, these testing facilities will continue to be instrumental in enhancing connectivity and innovation across various industries. In fact we are using AI, which is now becoming an advanced tool in analyzing, developing, and expanding research in RF and antenna.
The following equipment is what my group, RSI will normally use to perform an RF test assessment:
Signal generator for the test source
Vector or scalar network analyzers
Calibrated RF Meter
Calibrated E-Field Probe
Calibrated H-Field Probe
Calibrated Personal Protection Monitor
2 Meter “Story Pole”
Digital Camera
Film Camera
Sling Psychrometer
GPS/GNSS and magnetic locator
Tape measures or survey lasers and optical equipment, with range poles, Trimble S3 with robotic function and 5000 meter range
Portable tower, and or drones with calibrated antennas and equipment
Real time data acquisition computer system for automated pattern measurement
Our Team in Action at a Telecom-site, Jon Walz "KD0DCO" of Concrete Walz & RSI Corp
Some equipment may have a limited frequency range or be very directional. Most RF probes used at communication sites are field dependent. At sites with transmitters below 300 MHz for EME/MPE testing, both the magnetic and electric fields must be measured, as either could be dominant. Additionally, the site may be assessed for induced and contact current hazards. An RF assessment or NIER Report at any RF site is complex and requires a trained, competent, and qualified assessor with extensive site knowledge and proper equipment.
How Signal Gain Measurement Works in Practice
Now, you might be wondering, “Okay, but how do you actually measure antenna gain?” Great question! The process can be surprisingly straightforward or quite complex, depending on your setup and accuracy needs.
Here’s the gist:
Reference antenna setup: You start with a known antenna whose gain is already established.
Test antenna placement: Place the antenna you want to test in the same position and orientation.
Signal transmission: Transmit a known signal from a source antenna.
Signal reception: Measure the received signal strength with both antennas.
Calculate gain: Compare the received power levels to determine the gain difference.
At K0UO,we use a massive open field with precise positioning systems and calibrated equipment to get ultra-accurate measurements. But for many of you, a smaller test range or even a controlled indoor environment can work if you’re careful.
One tip I learned the hard way: make sure there’s minimal reflection and interference during testing. Nearby metal objects, buildings, or even the ground can mess with your readings. Using a turntable to rotate the antenna and plot the radiation pattern is also a game-changer.
The K0UO RSI Corp RF test range site can provide test aircraft fitted with an electro-optical, infrared EO/ISR sensor, operator mission, tactical radios, and data link a testing area at the 4KS Walz airport..
My company RSI Corp back in 2002 formed an educational alliance with NWOSU, RSI had offices and classrooms on the NWOSU Alva, OK campus, where they taught both University accredited, and Adult specialized RF and agriculture courses. The NWOSU campus office was under the leadership of Gary Gerber "KB0HH", teaching courses like Superior Survey Techniques SST (RF) which follows a book of the same name, that I wrote in 1998. https://www.rsicorp.com/sst
RSI’S Radiofrequency Safety International Technical group has performed technical, safety, RF EME and general hazard inspection assessments at thousands of sites throughout the country, including many major broadcast sites, tower antenna farms, major buildings, and DOD installations. Radiofrequency Safety International and Steve Walz is using AI, which is now becoming an advanced tool in analyzing, developing, and expanding research.
Because EME/RFR is considered a physical hazard, proper programs must be in place to ensure safety at an RF test site. This is just like noise or air pollution. Everyone knows about and has noise and air sampling done; the same application applies to electromagnetic energy emissions. Testing must be done by a qualified EME/RF person.
Testing must be done by a qualified EME/RF professional
Training must be done for workers who may be exposed to EME/RF above the uncontrolled levels so they can recognize and avoid the hazard
A Plan must be in place
The Rooftop Visual Audit™ will include:
Map of Rooftop layout including antennas and associated equipment areas showing both licensed and unlicensed occupants
Inventory of antennas including:
Operator (if information is available at the site)
Antenna type and MFG/Model as available
Photographs of all antennas and associated equipment areas
RSI Virtual University, exclusive online certification training program. See RSI Corp: Virtual University
Above: Mobile Radio Technology (MRT) magazine March 1997 cover page, with the RSI and Steve Walz's performing an RF Survey, and a complete article on the procedures 
Two of the taller steel towers in use at K0UO a 100 foot on the left and a 195 on the right with HF LPDA beams on top AI technologies are used to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of antenna design, quickly generate simulation results, and fine-tune antenna size and shape for improved performance and is an advanced tool in analyzing, developing, and expanding research in RF and antennas
Layout out before testing
The assessment must be repeatable. The methods and procedures must be able to stand the scrutiny of a FCC, DOD, zoning board or city councils, as well as the possible scrutiny of a legal representative. My team uses industry standard procedures for environmental assessments, which have been able to stand the test of time.
This uncertainty term encompasses all non-repeatable errors stemming from the receiver, cables, temperature, variations in the AUT, and similar factors. It is anticipated that temperature fluctuations can be a factor at an outdoor range, and the source antenna might be affected by movement due to wind. Furthermore, scattering caused by the dynamic nature of the terrain and trees between the source and AUT is included in this term.
The best method is to estimate this quantity is by comparing the far-fields from two or more azimuthal scans conducted with identical scan parameters. Ideally, K0UO uses five or more repeat measurements are taken without altering the measurement system.
Then the far-field patterns of these repeat measurements are averaged, and this average is compared to a single measurement through complex plot subtraction. The pattern comparison and the RMS level are then utilized to determine the estimated uncertainty.
Conclusion
Antenna range testing is crucial for ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and regulatory compliance of antenna systems. By providing precise performance measurements and reducing interference, antenna ranges contribute to the development of high quality antennas for modern communication networks. As technology evolves, these testing facilities will continue to be instrumental in enhancing connectivity and innovation across various industries.
Antenna Gain: How well an antenna amplifies a signal in a particular direction.
Antenna Pattern: The 3D radiation pattern showing the directionality of the antenna.
Input Impedance
Frequency range
Polarization
Radiation Efficiency
Radiation Pattern
The Range Facilitates R&D and Innovation, Provides a dedicated environment for engineers, researchers and radio ham to develop and validate new antenna designs efficiently.
The best equipment on the market today can have as much as 4 db of error. These items can in some cases be addressed and mitigated with proper training. Some of the other equipment could have as much as 30 db of error in complicated environments
The Rhombic antenna farm, which was engineered and built single handed, stands as a testament to advanced engineering and design in the field of telecommunications. This facility is not just a simple installation; it encompasses a sophisticated array of technologies and infrastructure that enable effective communication over vast distances. Among its most notable features are the massive Rhombic antennas and beverage antennas, both of which are designed for optimal performance in receiving and transmitting signals.
Testing the Rhombic Arrays
The Rhombic antennas, known for high gain and directivity, are positioned to optimize effectiveness across frequency ranges. Their geometric shape enables precise signal capture, ideal for long-distance communication. Beverage antennas, low-profile and used for receiving, excel with low-angle signals, enhancing distant transmission reception.
All antennas have been tested in the far field to assess performance and reach. These measurements evaluate signal strength and quality at various distances, allowing for optimization. This ensures the station operates efficiently and meets modern communication demands.
NOTE, Don't underestimate the performance of the Rhombic, unless you have
personally built and used one. Despite their large size, Rhombic antennas use thousands of feet of wire to capture signals at different times and angles, reducing fading and enhancing transmission. Traveling wave antennas are unique, and modeling will not show this major advantage.
The K0UO RSI Corp Antenna Test Facility ATF near Kiowa, KS, is in an electromagnetically-quiet area.
The range is in a very rural area, near the center of the United States, the integrity of the test results have no RFI the from external interference.
Massive scale: The range is known for its size and extensive collection of antennas, and towers, which is rare for an individual operator.
Low interference: The remote, isolated location means the antennas are in an electromagnetically quiet environment, which is ideal for accurate and high-quality testing.
Extensive equipment: The facility houses in the aircraft hanger, many different types of antennas and equipment, used for a variety of tests and research.
Open and clear land: The rural setting, with its open spaces and clear fields, is visually striking to antenna enthusiasts.
Furthermore, the station is situated on an expansive property that consists of up to 1200 acres, which is either owned, leased permission, or deeded right of ways (ROW), around the antenna farm site. This substantial land area provides ample space for the installation of additional antennas, equipment, and support structures, as well as buffer zones that minimize interference from external sources. The strategic layout of the antennas across this vast expanse is carefully planned to reduce signal degradation and enhance overall performance.
The combination of cutting-edge engineering, advanced antenna technology, and a large operational footprint positions the K0UO Antenna Farm and Test range site as a leader in the field, capable of meeting the evolving challenges of telecommunications in an increasingly connected world. This comprehensive setup not only serves current communication needs but also allows for future expansion and adaptation as technology continues to advance. RSI and myself has done RFI investigation work as an ARRL Voluntary Consulting Engineer (VEC), and Technical Specialist, and has provided technical assistance to many, by investigating RFI issues and finding the sources of the RFI.
To conduct the measurement using a drone at the K0UO test range site, the operator designs a flight path by determining the measurement width in azimuth and elevation, along with the granularity of the measurement lines. The drone autonomously follows this grid path, ensuring constant pointing and polarization alignment with the Antenna Under Test (AUT). The results are produced by combining the measured RF levels with the calculated angular position of the drone relative to the AUT. The data points are interpolated and displayed in a heat-map or 3D diagram. This process requires approximately 10 to15 minutes of flight time, with results generated instantly. These results then allow users to:
Implement contours and calculate the 3 dB beamwidth along with the Front to Back (FB) ratio
Compute beam center
Verify levels against regulatory masks
Compare results between models and measurements
The Report
Model and Field Testing Reports
Metrology is the scientific study of measurement just the ability to measure alone is insufficient; standardization is crucial for measurements to be meaningful.
An example of this was the testing of the Rhombic arrays 160 to 6 meters, for the design maximum gain, the azimuth of maximum gain, steering of both direction and azimuth, design side-lobes, and the back-to-front ratio. A calibrated, W&G EMR meter for both the E and H field is used, with the use of a portable tower or drone in the far field at precise predetermined positions. This allowed the for the most suitable method of conducting the test measurements. The analysis and its feedback mechanisms are a major part of K0UO's projects.
All test at the K0UO range is done in the Far Fields, or the Fraunhofer zone which is the area where changes in distance from the antenna no longer produce a noticeable change in pattern shape or field impedance.
All arrays have been modeled using EZNEC and HFTA (High Frequency Terrain Analysis) to evaluate the take of angle of the various antennas over real ground
Also you need to understand Traveling Wave Antennas, like the Rhombic, some programs will not model them correctly.
Explained
The classification of rhombic and V Beams antennas as traveling wave antennas indicates that they operate based on the principle of wave propagation along the antenna structure. Unlike standing wave antennas, which have fixed points of maximum and minimum voltage (standing waves), traveling wave antennas like the rhombic utilize the continuous movement of waves along the length of the antenna. This results in a more uniform radiation pattern and often leads to enhanced performance in terms of signal strength and clarity.
Capture area or Effective Aperture is determined by antenna gain and the wavelength, not by antenna physical size.
All the Rhombic and V Beam antennas are field tested to confirm the design values, which concluded that the amplitudes & phases of the currents in the radiators conform with the antenna model. The antennas are readjustment as needed for max gain and best F/B. The radiation pattern of an HF antenna is formed as a result of reflection by the ground, and it may also be modified by currents flowing in the support structure. Data regarding the gain, accuracy of beam shape, and slew angle, as well as side lobe level and the amplitude of the radiation both in the minima and to the rear of the antenna, this was determined through real measurements. It is difficult to predict from the amplitudes and phases of the current flowing in the radiating elements. If significant discrepancies between design and actual performance are found, such measurements are advantageous as changes are made.
K0UO proof tests fall into three categories:
(1) Comprehensive evaluation of radiation patterns, impedance, and gain for the antenna on 40 & 20 meters. (160, 80, 30, 17, 15,12, 10 & 6 meters were considered secondary, but also tested)
(2) The minimum practical tests provided proof of performance of the installed antenna on 40 meters @ night time "F layer", and Daytime with "D layer absorption".
(3) Compares forward gain at the desired azimuth and elevation angle to average gain over the entire hemisphere
E & H meters below are used for the field testing
Above: Wandel & Goltermann E&H Field power density meter with fiber optic cable to PC, the meter-probe is on the crank-up test tower and uses a fiber cable down to the PC for data collection.
Also can use a E&H Field power density meter mounted on a large commercial drone.
K0UO is using Ace HF Pro and IONSUM, which are computer programs using the output of the IONCAP prediction method to determine the most suitable frequency band and required antenna gain under specific averaged conditions. The acronym stands for IONCAP SUMmary. Propagation predictions form an essential tool in the management of a HF wanting to work DX Stations. The data from such predictions are used to specify the types and operating frequency ranges required to work the DX by allowing for changes in the antennas take off angle to achieve maximum signal to the desired direction. Which it is used to contact DX stations utilizing both long path or short path on F layer, or to contact North American stations on daytime with high D layer adsorption (160, 80, 60 & 40 meters). Some reflection can be obtained from the D region, but the strength of radio waves is reduced; this is the cause of the marked reduction in the range of radio transmissions in daytime on the HF lower bands.
The K0UO station uses real time ionosonde (vertical HF RADAR ionospheric height-finder) data and ACE-HF Network, by Long Wave Inc which allows K0UO to analyze the entire HF spectrum using a single fixed transmitter location and multiple receive locations. The 64 Bit application has enhanced features and uses Google Earth and Google Maps to provide detailed HF Area Coverage Maps. And uses, and is part of real time GPS observables network to measure properties of the electron density such as the total electron content (TEC). The TEC is a measure of the total number of electrons that would be contained in a cylinder that extends up vertically above a given point on the earth all the way through the ionosphere K0UO uses, and was part of a real time GPS observable network to measure properties of the electron density such as the total electron content (TEC). The TEC is a measure of the total number of electrons that would be contained in a cylinder that extends up vertically above a given point on the earth all the way through the ionosphere. The ACE HF Pro, by Long Wave Inc allows the K0UO station to analyze the entire HF spectrum using a single fixed transmitter location and multiple receive locations. The station uses ionosonde (vertical HF RADAR ionospheric height-finder) data.
The Fresnel Region: An In-Depth Exploration
The Fresnel region, often referred to as the near field, is a critical area in the study of electromagnetic radiation, particularly in the context of antennas and wave propagation. This region is characterized by the fact that the radiation field pattern or shape is still in the process of formation, which means that the characteristics of the electromagnetic waves are not yet fully developed. The complexity of this region arises from the interaction of the emitted waves and the environment, leading to a variety of phenomena that can influence the overall performance of the radiating system. One important aspect of the Fresnel region is its relationship to induction field areas. Depending on the specific configuration and design of the radiating source, the Fresnel region may or may not encompass these induction fields. Induction fields are areas where the electric and magnetic fields interact in a manner that can induce currents in nearby conductive materials. The presence or absence of these induction fields can significantly affect the behavior of the radiation pattern and the effective range of the antenna. In the case of physically large arrays, such as the K0UO Rhombic site, the Fresnel zone will extend out several wavelengths from the source. This extension is due to the size and scale of the array, which creates a more complex interaction with the surrounding environment. The larger the array, the more pronounced the effects in the Fresnel region become, as the emitted waves can interfere with one another, creating constructive and destructive interference patterns. This can lead to a variety of radiation characteristics that are unique to the specific configuration of the array. Furthermore, the field impedance within the Fresnel zone is another crucial factor to consider. The field impedance, which is a measure of how much the electromagnetic field resists the flow of energy, may or may not have been established within this region. This means that the impedance can vary significantly depending on the distance from the source and the specific characteristics of the surrounding medium. As the electromagnetic waves propagate through the Fresnel zone, they may encounter different materials that can alter their impedance, leading to changes in the radiation pattern and efficiency of the antenna. In summary, the Fresnel region is an essential area of study in electromagnetic theory and antenna design. Its unique characteristics, influenced by the size of the radiating array and the presence of induction fields, play a pivotal role in shaping the radiation field pattern. Understanding the complexities of the Fresnel zone, including the establishment of field impedance, is crucial for optimizing antenna performance and ensuring effective communication in various applications.
Some of the K0UO QTH is located in a wetland area on a creek bottom, characterized by high alkalinity and salt content. The nearby farmland, extending up to two miles away, has very high conductivity due to its red, iron-rich soil. The primary grounding is provided by a 5400-foot-deep oil well casing. Electrical Conductivity (EC) refers to a material's ability to conduct an electrical current, typically measured in milliSiemens per meter (mS/m). The presence of more ions, whether from acidity or basicity, enhances electrical conductivity, thus increasing the EC in soil. The Wenner "4-point or 4-pin Method" is the most common technique for assessing soil resistivity for broadcasters and communication sites. This method involves spacing probes 5 feet apart to measure resistivity at a 5-foot depth. Similarly, spacing the probes 40 feet apart yields a weighted average soil resistance from the surface down to 40 feet. This raw data is often processed with software to analyze soil resistivity as a function of depth. The accompanying photo shows three wooden pine poles supporting the radiating antenna cables surrounded by water; when the soil is drier, it has a very high salt content and is composed of red, iron-rich dirt. During winter months, up to six Beverage receive antennas, each ranging from 1000 to 1500 feet, are utilized in this area and the adjacent winter wheat fields.
I now use a Re-entrant system of the rhombic arrays which is 90% efficient by re-phasing the power back in the antenna, instead of heating up termination resistors. The K0UO antenna farm is now the largest in the world using wire arrays.
L. B. Cebik, W4RNL modeling
This is for 80 meters, it would need to be a half wave high to control ground loss
Does NEC5 model buried conductors
WA7ARK recommends NEC5 (newer MOM algorithm) from Lawerence Livermore Labs greatly adds to modeling capability (adds buried conductors) and makes it much easier to write models (many less restrictions compared to NEC2d)
Models vs. Prototypes: Why Field Adjustment Will Always be Necessary
L. B. Cebik, W4RNL
TO SEE the complete Blog list check @ https://www.k0uo.com/k0uo
My Corporation has checked 1000s of RF site
My team at RSI Corp. - Radiofrequency Safety International has a proven, a successful track record in providing certified EME/RFR compliant surveys, safety training, and solutions to thousands of industry and RF Telecom workers. RSI courses also meets the certification requirements for AT&T, Verizon, Bechtel, DOD, Motorola, Black & Veatch and most other major carriers and contracting organizations. Our authorized OSHA outreach trainers have decades of real world experience to deliver the safety solutions to organizations to comply with OSHA, FCC, EPA, and FAA regulations, while also ensuring employee safety.
The K0UO antenna test range site serves as an invaluable learning environment specifically designed for a variety of Scientific, Technical, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM) antennas projects, in an outdoor real world location. Known as"The K0UO & RSI Corp Antenna University". This unique facility provides students, researchers, and professionals with the opportunity to engage in hands-on experiences that are crucial for understanding the complexities of antenna design, testing, and implementation.
Purpose and Importance of the K0UO Antenna Test Range: The primary purpose of the K0UO antenna test range is to facilitate practical learning experiences that complement theoretical knowledge. By offering a real-world setting, the site allows participants to observe and interact with antenna systems in various conditions, which is essential for grasping the principles of radio frequency (RF) communications and signal propagation.
The site can be used for RDT&E antenna characterization.
Features of the Test Range: The test range is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and resources that enable a wide array of experimental setups. Participants can utilize various types of antennas, including directional, omnidirectional, and specialized antennas, to conduct experiments that test their performance under different scenarios. The outdoor location is particularly advantageous as it mimics the actual environments where antennas will be deployed, allowing for more accurate data collection and analysis. ## Educational Programs and Workshops In addition to individual projects, the K0UO antenna test range hosts a series of educational programs and workshops aimed at fostering interest in STEM fields. These programs are tailored for students of all ages, from elementary school to university level, and are designed to inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists. Through collaborative projects, participants can work in teams, enhancing their problem-solving skills and encouraging innovative thinking.
Research Opportunities: The site also serves as a hub for research activities, where academic and industry professionals can conduct advanced studies related to antenna technology. This includes exploring new materials, designs, and applications for antennas in various fields such as telecommunications, aerospace, and environmental monitoring. The collaborative nature of the test range encourages the sharing of knowledge and resources, leading to advancements in technology and methodology.
Community Engagement: Furthermore, the K0UO antenna test range actively engages with the local community, offering outreach programs that promote STEM education. By partnering with schools and community organizations, the site provides resources and support to inspire young minds to explore careers in science and technology. This engagement not only enriches the educational landscape but also helps to bridge the gap between academia and the community. In summary, the K0UO antenna test range is more than just a testing facility; it is a comprehensive educational platform that plays a vital role in advancing knowledge and skills in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through its hands-on approach, state-of-the-art resources, and community involvement, it significantly contributes to the development of future innovators and leaders in the STEM disciplines.
Gold Standard RF Surveyor Certification Class
The RSI Superior Survey Techniques™ training course, by Steven Walz is a University based program developed over a quarter of a century ago by RSI. RSI is the original RF safety expert and wrote the book on RF surveys which is now an industry standard and best practice. This course is the advanced application of scientific sampling techniques necessary for professional health and safety hygiene reports. Participants must be highly qualified and it is strongly recommended attendees have ongoing compliance programs and hold certification such as RSI’s Train the Trainer or Advanced Train the Trainer or an equivalent.
This tried and true scientifically based class, consists of two days of intensive training focused on industry standards for safe and technically sound RF survey data collection.
RSI’s original proven training is the only hands on course available and is designed to build a solid foundation for RF data survey collection. Upon completion of this course, participants will be trained in procedures that are uniform throughout the industry, used nationally and have withstood scrutiny from a variety of governmental entities including the FCC. They will be certified RF safety surveyors.
OVERVIEW: My group, RSI Corp. - Radiofrequency Safety International was originally a University based organization located at Northwestern Oklahoma State University, operating under a public-private partnership (RSI Educational Foundation, in 1997 Steve wrote the book, "Superior Survey Techniques". Mobile Radio Technology (MRT) magazine featured RSI Corp and Steve Walz in an RF Survey article, which outlined the requirements on how to conduct non-ionizing radiation Radiofrequency Safety Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) analysis, using scientific best management practices. This document set the standard for legally documenting and substantiating compliance. The procedures has since become the standard for documenting radio frequency radiation both nationally and worldwide.
Published in various trade journals and author of a number of white papers, over the years I have been honored to serve on numerous committees, boards and advisory groups ranging from technical, safety, environmental and economic development. Retired from Electrophysics Science work, which specialized in RF/EMI/EMC fields. I have also taught many types of Telecom Safety, Antenna Theory and Technical classes since the late 1990's, (over 35,000 students) live or online through RSI Corp. Other career activities and businesses ranged from Farming, Broadcasting, Oil & Gas services, Concrete Walz Brand of concrete fencing and Wind/Oil & Gas radio tower services.
https://web.archive.org/web/20160219070059/http://rsiwind.com/, Walz Broadcasting, Border Line Electric, LMR Two-way radio services, and RSI "Defense Technical Information" Group which focuses on defense telecommunication command and control used by Federal Agencies and military see, https://www.rsicorp.com/dtic
This class is part of the Motorola Co-op reimbursement (50%); Category 4 Education credits. Train-the-Trainer option meets RFSO.
Certification curriculum, Telecom workers/supervisors needing recurrent training; companies wanting customizable plans. Widely used for carrier compliance (e.g., AT&T, Verizon).
I have been very fortunate and honored to continue military and aviation experiences throughout the years, by occasionally working with a few Defense Contractors and Government Agencies.
KDOT aviation education. Starting November, 2025 your local school districts can apply for high school aviation education courses that are outlined in the flyer. We have a video posted on our YouTube channel discussing these courses, that you can access here.
If your school is interested in adopting an aviation education program, please feel free to either have them reach out to us or schedule a meeting and include us. With our academic partners, we can answer any questions and walk your school district through the process. We can also put them in touch with other school districts that currently have an aviation education program.
These courses can be adopted anywhere, regardless of how rural or resource constrained your school district may be. There are strategies that can overcome many obstacles. Please help us spread the word.
Ray Seif | Director of Aviation
O: 785-296-6336
M: 785-496-8630
Kansas Department of Transportation
Eisenhower State Office Building
700 SW Harrison St, 9th Floor
Topeka, KS 66603-3745
The K0UO antenna test range site makes use of the 4KS Walz Public airport, known as "Antenna University", and its surrounding area as a practical learning environment for STEM (Scientific, Technical, Engineering, & Mathematics) antenna projects in a real-world outdoor setting. The site has a large outdoor area with a variety of terrain types for conducting user defined experiments. If your group has a University aerospace or antenna research STEM program, please let me know. The KØUO Rhombic Antenna Farm and Antenna Test Range: Home to the World's Largest amateur radio (ham), High Frequency (HF) Wire Arrays, miles of wire in the air and on the air daily. We are using AI which is now becoming an advanced tool in analyzing, developing, and expanding research in RF and antennas.
73
K0UO/V31KW
Seve Walz
Thank you Steve for hosting our WSU drone engineering team at your airport and antenna test site. We flew the 1200 plus acres, it's truly amazing to be at the world's largest antennatest range out in the country away from all types of interference
Steve has a very complex setup, and can really test and understand how the antennas work in the real world
Crazy interesting that someone could build all this for amateur radio use