Next-generation satellite communication operates at high frequencies and makes use of active phased array antenna systems that electronically steer beams to precise locations. While that does translate to improved overall reliability, it also means ubiquitous connectivity and sensing requirements — as well as testing that is both complex and time-consuming.
A new option for the S7601A (above), a comprehensive set of antenna measuring tools, is designed to turn the lengthy process of calibrating phased arrays from a span of hours or days to a matter of a few minutes. Source: Keysight TechnologiesFor Keysight Technologies, the answer to these challenges is a new option for its S7601A Antenna Measurement Toolset specifically designed for phased array antenna control and calibration. By optimizing frequency, gain and phase response of active antenna array elements to reduce the effects of interference, the new solution improves signal pointing accuracy. According to the company, it also reduces the lengthy process of calibrating phased arrays from a span of hours or days to a matter of a few minutes.
Among the benefits of the new solution:
- Proprietary phased array calibration algorithms: Enables highly accurate measurement of gain and phase for a single phased array element under test in an indirect far field test environment. When combined with fast synchronization of radio frequency (RF) test instruments, antenna positioning system and phased array control hardware, these algorithms significantly shorten phased array calibration times.
- Wide variety of verification tests: Includes fast gain and phase calibration, effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP), radiation pattern versus beam scan angle, beam scan and range loss, cross-polarization isolation, gain compression, gain-over-noise temperature (G/T) and modulation distortion (error vector magnitude).
Integrated solution: Features a single, user-friendly software interface that controls the antenna under test, high-performance test instruments, and Keysight's compact antenna test range positioner and temperature control unit. - Maximizes existing test chambers: Retrofits into existing anechoic chambers with the addition of a PNA-X vector network analyzer and Phased Array Antenna Control and Calibration solution.
The Phased Array Antenna Control and Calibration solution is a part of a system built for engineers as a comprehensive set of antenna measurement tools. The S7601A supports a wide variety of non-signaling antenna measurements including frequency response, polar or full spherical antenna patterns, and associated post-processing software for 2D and 3D graphical representation. The new phased array option offers complete control of a user’s phased array and beam-forming chipset(s) through a standard SCPI command set — allowing both Keysight-developed support of industry chipsets or user-provided support of their own custom designs.
