Test and Evaluation of ATCRBS Electronic Scan Antenna (Field Environment Tests).
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 radar/beacon test facility (TR/BTF) 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)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA021771
Entities
People
- Anthony D. Bradley