Solid State Array Studies Relevant to OTP Regulations. Part 1. Evaluation of Amplitude and Phase Characteristic of Microwave Solid State Amplifier.
Abstract
A study has been made of microwave amplifier modules designed for phased array antenna service. Output amplitude and phase behavior have been measured under mismatched load conditions at fundamental and harmonic frequencies. A bridge has been used that is capable of being balanced at fundamental, second and third harmonics. Reference signals at these frequencies are adjusted in amplitude and phase to cancel the corresponding components produced by the amplifier under test. The amplitude and phase variations of the waves travelling out of the amplifier are measured as a function of load mismatch. A standard test load is used to present to the amplifier output, the impedances that lie on a selected series of VSWR circles on a Smith chart. The test load is not a replica of the dynamic impedance of any particular chosen element in a phased array but the data gathered can be used to provide amplitude and phase data for radiation pattern calculations if the dynamic impedance of each antenna element is known. Results obtained using the load are presented as equi-power and equi-phase contours in the overall region of load variation. L- and S-band bipolar transistor modules designed for phased array antenna service and various experimental S-band TRAPATT amplifiers have been studied.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA032130
Entities
People
- Donald W. Griffin
Organizations
- Syracuse University