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An Introduction to Phased Array Design (rev B)

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My motivation to write this technical note came from a desire to try and bridge some of the the gap between : "A row of isotropic sources does this..."    and   

"In each iteration k of the algorithm , a quadratic sub-problem is formed where Mk is usually a semi-definite approximation to the Hessian matrix of the Lagrangian function with respect to phi"  from a paper on beam synthesis.

The abstract below is from my  considerably less advanced, but hopefully less scary offering.  The note and files used to produce it can be downloaded using the following links.     Download  Paper      Download Files

ABSTRACT

There are many texts and publications that deal with the theory of phased array design and some hint at the practicalities. In many cases the topics are advanced and treatment is justifiably complex. However, a beginner can quickly find himself or herself staring into the mathematical abyss and still be left wondering how to actually go about designing an array.

The aim of this note, by way of an example, is to show how theory, modelling and measurement come together in practice. The example used is a 6-element linear array of dipoles over a finite ground-plane, fed using a reactive power splitter. By analysing and solving the problems encountered in this simple example, it is hoped to give the reader a basic framework from which to view more complex analysis.  

Key Areas Covered

*   Specify array dimensions in terms of its aperture and look at the relation to the Fourier  transform.

*   Develop an array specification using simple array factor software (ArrayCalc). Specification includes electrical beam tilt (scan) and sidelobe suppression.

*   Examine mutual coupling effects using 4NEC2.

*   Look at mutual coupling compensation strategies and implement one of them (active input impedance).

*   Design a 6-way reactive power splitter.

*   Develop a full 4NEC2 model of the array including mutual coupling compensation.

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Screen shot of the finished 4NEC2 array model.