Cross-Polarization Measurement Accuracy Improvement on a Single Reflector Compact Range
Author: David C. Cook
Publication: AMTA 1996
Copyright Owner: NSI-MI Technologies
Scientific-Atlanta has developed a new algorithm for obtaining high accuracy cross-polarization measurements from prime focus, single reflector, compact ranges. The algorithm reduces cross-polarization extraneous signals to levels that rival or exceed much more expensive dual reflector systems, but with the associated cost and simplicity of a single reflector system. This paper provides an overview of the new algorithm. It explains the limitations on conventional polarization measurements in single reflector systems and the methods for overcoming these limitations without error correction for some antennas. A method for determining if error correction is needed for a particular antenna is reviewed and the fundamentals of the error correction algorithm are explained. Preliminary test results are provided.