Abstract: A communications system such as a global position system (GPS) device, a spacecraft tracking device, a handheld radio, or any other communications device may include one or more helix antennas. Each helix antenna may include a conductive circular ring at a distal end of one or more helical arms. In a helical antenna with multiple arms, the arms may be shorted together at the distal end by the conductive circular ring.

Abstract: A radio-frequency (RF) antenna with wideband impedance matching includes a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer, and patterned connections. The first conductive layer is formed on a first surface of a dielectric material. The second conductive layer is formed on a second surface of the dielectric material. The patterned connections between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are formed through multiple vias to enable the wideband impedance matching. The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are formed based on an antenna-layout pattern. The multiple vias are formed based on a via pattern that corresponds to the antenna-layout pattern.