Accession Number:

ADA021771

Title:

Test and Evaluation of ATCRBS Electronic Scan Antenna (Field Environment Tests).

Descriptive Note:

Interim rept. Jan 73-Jun 75,

Corporate Author:

NATIONAL AVIATION FACILITIES EXPERIMENTAL CENTER ATLANTIC CITY N J

Personal Author(s):

Report Date:

1976-01-01

Pagination or Media Count:

96.0

Abstract:

The air traffic control radar beacon system ATCRBS electronic scan antenna ESA as designed and built consists of 56 array modules placed on a platform ring constructed around the top of an airport surveillance radar tower. A shelter beneath the tower provides an enclosure for the control and radiofrequency distribution system of the ESA. This interim report covers the field environment testing to measure and evaluate the ability of the ESA to overcome siting problems in a representative field enviornment as compared to the existing ATCRBS in-service antennas types FA-8043 and FA-8044. In was concluded that the ARCRBS ESA improved the vertical lobing pattern over flat terrain and provided a matched directional and omnidirectional pattern comparison with the ATCRBS in-service antennas. However, local environment conditions along one particular radial at the terminal radarbeacon test facility TRBTF caused severe low-elevation angle interference vertical lobing, and diffraction of the ATCRBS ESA directional and omnidirectional beam patterns were noted form a vertical obstruction. Beam hopover, combined with improved side lobe suppression ISLS system operation, effectively eliminated reflections from a large aircraft hangar building, which were present when using the in-service ATCRBS antenna. Author

Descriptors:

Subject Categories:

  • Terminal Flight Facilities
  • Active and Passive Radar Detection and Equipment

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE


View the full text of this report