Spherical Near-Field Antenna Measurements with the Scientific-Atlanta Model 2022

Authors: Joseph J. Tavormina, Doren W. Hess

Publication: AMTA 1980

Copyright Owner: NSI-MI Technologies

Near-field antenna measurement techniques offer an alternative to conventional far-field antenna measurement techniques. Of the various coordinate systems used for near-field measurements, the spherical coordinate system provides the most natural extension from the conventional far-field characterization of an antenna to a more general characterization for arbitrary range lengths.

This paper describes the Scientific-Atlanta Model 2022, a user-oriented implementation of a spherical near-field antenna measurement system. An example of typical system usage is provided. System capabilities and performance are described. Key concepts required to understand and use the spherical near-field method are discussed.

The advantages and disadvantages of near-field antenna testing in relation to conventional far-field testing are considered. The particular merits of spherical near-field testing as compared to other forms of near-field testing are discussede Antenna testing situations which provide the most likely candidates for the spherical near-field measurement technique are described.