Practical Aspects of Active Phased Array Antenna Development

This book provides a practical and comprehensive guide to the design, analysis, and development of an active phased array antenna system. Reflecting the author's decades of experience with these systems, the book is unique in that it pulls together in one volume key information from several disciplines and covers all the components of an active phased array antenna system, giving you the full scope of knowledge necessary to confidently design systems with high reliability and maintainability. It walks you through the multiple aspects of the active phased array antenna system design, with inputs from diverse specialties such as aperture design, T/R module design, hybrid lab, beam steering control, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing - helping you avoid problems that often require the redesign of some of the components of the antenna system. You will find step-by-step guidance on the design and analysis of an active phased array antenna system, including T/R modules, DC/DC converters, beamformers, beam steering controller, antenna packaging, thermal management, and antenna calibration in the field. You will also find details on antenna design for high reliability and clutter improvement factor, digital beamforming arrays, and strategies for cost reduction. With its unique coverage and practical approach, this is an important book for engineers new to the field as well as experienced antenna and radar engineers working on active phased array antenna systems.