Electromagnetic Radome Measurements: A Review of Automated Systems

Authors: Doren W. Hess, Robert Luna, John McKenna
Publication: Loughborough Antennas and Propagation Conference (LAPC)
Copyright Owner: Loughborough Antennas and Propagation Conference (LAPC)

Characterization of radome performance involves measuring the radome-induced changes in the microwave signals that are transmitted and received by the antenna through the radome. The standard quantities that characterize a radome’s performance are Beam Deflection, Boresight Shift, Transmission Efficiency, Change in Antenna Reflection Characteristic, and Pattern Distortion. Typical test system configurations include an RF subsystem and a mechanical positioning subsystem interfaced to a host computer. In this paper we review three types of radome test systems that have been implemented recently − far-field range, compact range, and near-field scanning ranges. We point out the salient features of each. We note the importance of digital automation to making these measurements practical.

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