Real-Life Math
You're an RF engineer. You are developing a quarter-wave antenna.
That's the type of antenna that is usually used on a vehicle.
After
spending extra time in the lab, you're sure you'll be able to finish
the project off today -- one day ahead of schedule. At least, you will if
you can get the math equation to work. You read through your notes one more
time.
You decide to write down the equation and then go back through
your research to determine the numbers that you need to add into the equation.
Your
notes show that the original cellular frequency band is between 824 MHz (megahertz)
and 897 MHz, which means the center of the band is 850 MHz. This is an important
part of the equation you'll be solving.
You write the following
equation down:
speed of light / frequency in MHz =
lambda
The lambda equals the wavelength in feet,
which is the answer you're looking for. However, the correct final answer
has to be shown in inches, not in feet. You make a mental note to convert
the number before you submit your work to your boss.
Many
of the math equations used are learned at the post-degree level of engineering,
she adds. So if you're interested in pursuing a degree in engineering,
it is essential you take all of the required math courses.
After looking
back through your notes, you find the numbers that need to be substituted
into the equation. They are as follows:
speed of light
= 984,240,000 feet/second
frequency in MHz = 850,000,000 lengths per second
lambda
= that is what your answer will be after completing the equation
Now
that you have the numbers and the equation, how long should the quarter-wave
antenna be?