Antenna arrays combine signals from multiple antennas to form a single beam, improving signal quality and minimizing interference. They can detect incoming signals and be computer-controlled to move the beam. Antenna arrays can take various forms and have different types, including linear, planar, and frequency-scanning arrays. They are often modeled by computers during the design stage.
An antenna array is a group of antennas from which signals are combined to form a single beam. It can include two or more antennas, while some arrays can have up to thousands of individual components radiating the signal. Antenna arrays are used to improve signal quality, minimize interference and focus the signal in a particular direction. They can also be used to detect where incoming signals are coming from. Also called a phased array antenna, the device allows beams from each antenna to cause interference which is used for driving signals.
The phase of each signal from each antenna is shifted to create a radiant beam. A single beam then travels in one direction, within a field of view up to 120°. All functions of the antenna array are computer controlled and the position of the beam can be moved in a fraction of a second. One of the most significant benefits of antenna arrays is that systems will work even if one antenna fails. The quality of the operation will decrease but the array will still work.
There are several types of antenna arrays. A linear array has a phase shifter and antennas arranged in a line. Rays can be deflected in only one horizontal or vertical plane, but a planar array can direct rays in two planes. This type is more complex and each antenna includes its own phase shifter. A frequency-scanning antenna array directs a beam based on the frequency of the signal; the return signals can be displayed in three dimensions.
An antenna array can take many forms. It can be etched into a circuit board, or its elements can be configured atop a cell phone tower. A microstrip antenna array is very small and is often printed on cell phone circuit boards. Large antenna arrays are sometimes used by military installations.
During the design stage, an antenna array is often modeled by a computer. The calculations to determine the size and beamforming capability of each antenna in the array are complex. For this purpose, computer software capable of solving difficult mathematical problems is used, and computers must have substantial horsepower to support this capability. Some software programs can also display beam patterns under various conditions in great detail. The function of an antenna array can therefore be determined before it is even built.
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