Antenna Pattern Measurement Facilities
Abstract:
The test operations procedure TOP is an overview of procedures for testing antennas using the automated data acquisition and analysis system ADAAS at the Antenna Test Facility ATF, US Army Electronic Proving Ground, Fort Huachuca, Arizona. The ATF has two test ranges an outdoor compact range and an arc range. The Compact Range uses a parabolic reflector to collimate radio frequency energy in order to simulate far-field testing. A large hydraulic positioner moves the test antenna through azimuth and elevation arcs to allow testing of an entire hemisphere of coverage. The Arc Range operates in the near field using uncollimated RF. It uses a turntable to rotate the test item through the desired range of azimuth a probe antenna moving along the vertical arc structure provides elevation coverage. The combination provides full hemispherical coverage. The TOP describes procedures for measuring antenna gain locations of beams, lobes, and nulls and other antenna characteristics. It contrasts the capabilities of the two ranges and provides guidelines to help the user select the right range for a particular test. Outdoor compact range, Quiet zone, Antenna testing, Arc range, Near field, Far field.