The reflector horn type antenna has greater "side lobe" rejection, directionality and sensitivity (efficiency) than a dish type.
A lot of parabolic reflectors are used in antennas, particularly with frequencies in the microwave region. There are a few other shapes, but they are infrequent choices for antenna designers.
A parabolic reflector antenna is made of fiberglass or metal (usually aluminum).
The parabolic antenna is really not an antenna at all - but a collector/reflector, which catches and concentrates RF (radio frequency) into a tiny antenna mounted above the dish, pointed into the dish. Since satellites transmit at very high frequencies (microwave), the actual antenna can be shorter than one inch. To strenghen the signal and make aiming the antenna at the satellite easier, the parabolic reflector picks up a wider area of RF.
Using a parabolic Wi-Fi antenna can enhance signal strength and range in a wireless network by focusing the signal in a specific direction, reducing interference, and increasing the overall coverage area.
•Advantage: •size •design simplicity •robustness
parabolic
A cut parabolic antenna is a type of parabolic antenna that is designed by slicing or cutting the parabolic reflector in a specific way to achieve desired radiation patterns or to optimize performance for particular applications. This design can enhance the antenna's directivity and gain while potentially reducing side lobes and improving signal reception. Cut parabolic antennas are often utilized in telecommunications, satellite communications, and radar systems. Their specific geometrical modifications allow for tailored performance in various frequency ranges and environments.
Parallel rays, such as those from a very distance source, are focussed by a parabolic antenna so that they all meet at the focus of the parabola. This results in a stronger signal.
Virtually all terrestrial microwave communication is point-to-point, using parabolic reflector antennas. A small percentage uses yagi, helical, corner reflector, or flat-plate reflector antennas. Essentially no "omnidirectional" antennas are used in microwave.
It would be a waste of precious metal if there was.
A: For the same reason a heater is parabolic to reflect heat, For the antenna the opposite is true to focus the incoming waves