The Microwaves and Radar Institute has been operating a Compact Test Range since 2010. This antenna and Radar Cross Section (RCS) measurement system is based on the Dual Reflector Compact Range principle. To achieve the far-field conditions required for the measurement, the spherical wave emitted by the test antenna (feed) is transformed into a plane wave via two curved reflectors. The very large distances required in classical far-field measurement systems are reduced to a few metres.
This antenna and RCS (Radar Cross Section) measurement system is based on the Dual Reflector Compact Range principle. In order to achieve the far field conditions required for the measurement, the spherical wave emitted by the measurement antenna (feed) is transformed into a plane wave by two curved reflectors. The very large distances required in classical far-field measurement systems are reduced to a few metres.
The diameter and quality of the test zone is defined by the maximum permissible amplitude and phase variation. Depending on the frequency range and feed antenna used, a range of up to 3.8 meters can be achieved in the Institute's Compact Test Range. The size and surface accuracy of the reflectors allow operation from 1 Gigahertz to 100 Gigahertz. The frequency range can be extended up to 300 Megahertz by direct illumination.
Techlab
The TechLab houses all of the Institute's hardware activities and measuring chambers.
The Compact Test Range is operated in a shielded room lined with microwave absorbers. Measurements are carried out under constant ambient conditions thanks to air conditioning. This room is located in the hall of the TechLab building.
The target is mounted on a 6-axis positioner with an accuracy range of better than 0.03 degrees on all axes. Targets weighing up to 200 kilogram can be mounted inside the chamber (pick-up function), heavier targets are mounted outside the chamber using a crane. For RCS measurements, the positioner can be removed from the chamber and replaced with a special low Radar Cross Section tower.
The TechLab houses all of the Institute's hardware activities and measuring chambers.
The Compact Test Range is used by the Institute for the development and testing of antennas and for the determination of backscatter properties. It can also be used by external customers.
Compact Test Range
Data
Dimension [m]
Compact Test Range: 24 x 11.7 x 9.7 meters (Length x Witdh x Heigth)
Test zone
3.8 metres in diameter; at a height of 5 meters
Frequency range
(300 Megahertz) 1 Gigahertz to 100 Gigahertz
Standard measurement tower
6-axis Orbit/FR Model Tower
Measurement towers
Further measuring towers for measuring reflection properties are available
HF measurement technology
Rohde & Schwarz ZVA 24
Usage
Antennas and Radar Cross Section measurement and analysis software
