How to Test Phased Array Antennas

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PNA-X Vector Network Analyzer
+ PNA-X Vector Network Analyzer
PNA-X Vector Network Analyzer
+ PNA-X Vector Network Analyzer

Testing phased array antennas with a network analyzer and a signal generator

Testing phased array antennas with high-accuracy calibration requires spherical antenna pattern measurements. A single test bed, including a vector network analyzer (VNA), a vector signal generator (VSG), a compact antenna test range (CATR), and multiple instrument software applications, enables a broad range of measurements while simplifying the calibration and test setup. The VSG supplies the required wideband modulated signal at high-carrier frequencies while a high-speed digital control interfaces with the phased array. The Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI) parser integrates the beamforming circuit into the test system.

Combined with the CATR and hardware-in-the-loop test methods, the VNA provides the necessary level of measurement precision by applying vector-error correction and advanced calibration methods. VNA software applications enable the gain compression, gain-over-noise-temperature (G / T), and low residual error vector magnitude (EVM) measurements. These measurements are necessary for rapid and accurate active electronically scanned array (AESA) calibration and beamforming performance validation.

Phased array antenna calibration and test solution including a PNA-X network analyzer and CATR

Phased array antenna calibration and test solution

Testing phased array antennas requires high-accuracy calibration and thorough spherical antenna pattern measurements. The Keysight VXG vector signal generator offers high-output power with ultralow phase noise, while the Keysight compact antenna test range isolates the AESA from external sources of interference. The CATR includes a positioner to measure radiation characteristics as a function of far-field spherical angles. The Keysight PNA-X vector network analyzer features, including two internal signal sources, a signal combiner, noise receivers, and a flexible set of switches and RF access points, enable a broad range of linear and nonlinear measurements in a single instrument. The antenna measurement software provides antenna pattern measurement and phased array antenna control and calibration. The PNA-X captures vector antenna pattern data from the two ports of a CATR’s dual-linear feed horn antenna. The system measures the phased array's beamforming pattern to compare radiated performance before and after calibration quickly. Key metrics include effective isotropic radiated power, radiation patterns versus beam scan angle, beam scan range, loss, cross-polarization isolation, gain compression, G / T, and EVM.
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