Spherical Near-Field Vertical Arch Measurement System

Spherical Near-Field Vertical Arch Measurement System

Model: SNF-ARCV-2.4

Features
  • High positioning accuracy and repeatability
  • Radiation pattern testing of stationary antennas
  • Accurate probe motion from 0-115° in theta
  • Rotary positioner provides 360° phi rotation of arch
  • Automatic electronic alignment capability
  • 3D dynamic on-the-fly probe position correction
  • Multi-beam, multi-frequency control of RF subsystem
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Advanced Antenna Characterization Using Multi-Axis Vertical Arch Motion

The spherical near-field vertical arch measurement system, SNF-ARCV-2.4, is an ideal solution for measuring radiation characteristics of non-moving antennas that do not require full spherical coverage and cannot be tested using the planar near-field technique. Three axes of motion revolve around the stationary AUT and an arch frame continuously rotates in the phi axis at speeds up to five revolutions per minute. The theta axis carriage carries the measurement probe through 115° of travel along the arch frame, with a linear slide providing precise real time radial adjustment. Proprietary error correction technique is used to further enhance its global accuracy. The versatile system is suitable for advanced phased array and general purpose antenna testing.

  • Specifications
  • Applications
  • Capabilities
Construction Steel support columns, upper support, phi rotary stage, theta arch structure
Drive System Precision stepper motors
Scan Area 360° phi and 0–115° in theta
Maximum Antenna Diameter 2.4 m (96 in.) diameter measurement sphere
Maximum Probe Weight 22.6 kg (50 lb)
Position Accuracy 0.01° RMS phi, 0.002° RMS theta
Rotational Speed Phi: 30°/second, Theta: 6°/second
System Controller NSI-MI controller with serial and parallel I/O interfaces
PC Workstation Windows computer with LCD monitor
Position Controller ELE-PMC, ELE-PAC
RF Receiver System NSI-MI VFA, Keysight PNF, Rohde & Schwarz ZVA
RF Path 26.5, 40 or 50 GHz (phi, theta, radial & pol)
Power 500 W, 100–240 VAC switchable, 50/60 Hz

The Spherical Near-Field Vertical Arch Measurement System supports NSI-MI, Keysight, and Rohde & Schwarz RF receivers and is capable of measuring amplitude and phase patterns from low frequency to mmWave. The system includes a software workstation preloaded with NSI2000 antenna measurement software and Windows operating system, providing automatic setup of scans based on measurement parameters and desired output. Measured data can be processed for far-field or holographic patterns yielding complete characterization of the antenna’s performance. A single data set provides information on antenna gain, side lobe structure, beam pointing and cross polarization.