Reflection Suppression in Large Spherical Near-Field Range
Authors: Greg Hindman, Allen C. Newell
Publication: AMTA 2005
Copyright Owner: NSI-MI Technologies
Reflections in antenna test ranges can often be the largest source of measurement errors, dominating all other error sources. This paper will show the results of a new technique developed by NSI to suppress reflections from the radome and gantry of a large hemi-spherical automotive test range developed for Nippon Antenna in Itzehoe, Germany. The technique, named Mathematical Absorber Reflection Suppression (MARS), is a post-processing technique that involves analysis of the measured data and a special filtering process to suppress the undesirable scattered signals. The technique is a general technique that can be applied to any spherical near-field test range. It has also been applied to extend the useful frequency range of microwave absorber in a spherical near-field system in an anechoic chamber. The paper will show typical improvements in pattern performance and directivity measurements, and will show validation of the MARS technique using data measured on antennas in a conventional anechoic chamber.