Commercial Radomes

Radome test service

NSI-MI Technologies offers commercial radome systems specifically designed for after-repair testing of commercial aircraft radomes. Our expert team has developed advanced antenna measurement systems that are capable of accurately testing the performance of radomes used in commercial aviation. The systems are capable of making measurements described in the widely referenced document DO-213A. After repair, radome testing includes transmission efficiency sidelobe level (SLL) measurements. Test systems are available in both C band (5.3 GHz to 5.74 GHz) and X band (9.3 GHz to 9.5 GHz) frequency ranges.


Features
  • Highly accurate and repeatable results
  • Easy to use and maintain
  • Scalable system allows for future expansion
  • Test system supports all current radome sizes
  • Most affordable system on the market today
  • Guaranteed test results that meet or exceed RTCA/DO-213A

Datasheet
  • Applications
  • Standard Components
  • Available Add-Ons

A radome’s performance is dependent on its ability to provide physical protection to the weather radar antenna and its electrical ability to provide two-way transmission of radar signals with minimum distortion and absorption. Radar efficiency, resolution, and accuracy of display depend upon a clear, non-distorted reflection-free antenna view through the radome. A radome’s construction and electrical performance are such that even the slightest change in physical characteristics, such as excessive layers of paint, can adversely affect the weather radar and windshear detection system performance. An improperly manufactured or repaired radome can result in:

  • Reduced radar range or signal loss
  • Distortion and displacement of target weather phenomena (i.e. a line of thunderstorms directly ahead may appear to be off to the left or right)
  • Clutter on the display obscuring the target
  • Improper windshear avoidance performance
 

RF Stability

DO-213A requires system level repeatability of +/-2% power or less than +/- 0.1 dB throughout the span of the radome test. Key Features of NSI-MI system that enhance RF fidelity and ensure that DO-213A requirements are met:

  • No moving cables
  • Highly repeatable rotary joints in the two antenna axes (no other moving RF parts)
  • Antenna alignment does not depend on radome positioner accuracy or dynamics
  • System antenna and range are precisely and permanently aligned
  • Built-in compensation for drift in source, cables, and amplifier
Positioning Sub-System
  • Radome Positioner
  • Test Antenna Positioner
  • Source Antenna Positioner
  • Position Control Electronics and Software


RF Measurement System Sub-System
  • RF Measurement Instrumentation
  • Cables, Adapters, Amplifiers to form a complete system
  • Data Acquisition and Analysis Workstation
System Accessories
  • Sidelobe Measurement Extension Kit
  • Radome Specific Mounting Adapters
  • System Antennas
  • Radome Specific Test Scripts


Anechoic Enclosure Options
  • Full Turn-key Anechoic Shielded Chamber
  • Full Turn-key Anechoic Enclosure
  • Consulting for Customer Procurement

Note: All anechoic chambers and enclosures include the installation of 20 cm (8 in.) pyramidal RF absorber, lighting, and air vents.


Support Options
  • Site Survey
  • Installation
  • Training
  • Annual Maintenance and Calibration