Robotic Measurement Solutions for Phased Array Calibration and Pattern Testing

Phased array antennas offer unparalleled adaptability which make them attractive for use in various multi-beam applications. While previously limited to use in high-end military systems, these antennas are now cost-effective options for a variety of commercial products and systems. At the same time, industrial robots are becoming increasingly common for test and measurement applications due to their low cost and high reliability, performance, and speed. With phased array production rates on the rise, efficient measurement systems for inter-element calibration of these antennas are in demand. This paper discusses some techniques used for phased array calibration and describes an economical measurement system for high throughput array tuning.