AESA and traditional antenna testing

AESA antenna testing for EMSO

Many different types of measurements are required to verify active electronically scanned array (AESA) and traditional antennas, determining whether they meet the expected performance level involved in many different measurement types.

Measuring radiation patterns and characterizing antenna parameters, such as voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR), gain, bandwidth, beamwidth, polarization, impedance and equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP), are typical core measurements employed to ensure optimal antenna performance. These parameters are interrelated and provide a comprehensive understanding of an antenna's capabilities and limitations in radiating or receiving electromagnetic waves. For instance, the radiation pattern illustrates how an antenna disperses energy in space; this is essential for directing signals in desired directions and avoiding interference with other systems.

AESA and traditional antenna parameters can be assessed through testing in an anechoic chamber, which provides a controlled environment free from external interferences, or outdoor range testing, which evaluates the antenna's performance in a real-world setting.

Evolved T/R modules for AESA antennas, which represent a significant development in the field of beam-forming antennas, require new measurement methods and solutions. The frequency range for AESA testing depends on the application but range from as low as 100 kHz to higher than 170 GHz.

Your AESA testing challenges

Achieving comprehensive test coverage of antennas is key to efficient and predictable performance. The validation and measurement process involves a series of calibrated and traceable measurements that are repeatable, ensuring consistency and accuracy. Test engineers face the challenge of creating measurement environments that yield reliable results under realistic test conditions.

Speed is a critical factor, and quick and precise measurements are essential, particularly for over-the-air (OTA) testing of AESA systems. OTA testing is a vital but challenging part of the measurement process, requiring calibrated instruments, accurate power measurement, a low-noise RF environment (either in a chamber or an open-air range) and a handling system capable of physically moving the test antenna and/or measurement and reference antennas.

Addressing all these challenges requires sophisticated test and measurement equipment, such as those provided by Rohde & Schwarz. Our tools are capable of accurately simulating real-world conditions, and they offer comprehensive analysis and diagnostics, making them essential for effective AESA testing.

High-performance solutions for AESA testing

Advanced test and measurement instruments are essential for antenna design validation and production testing. They allow for obtaining accurate and reproducible data and ensuring optimal antenna performance.

The Rohde & Schwarz R&S®ZNA, R&S®ZNB and R&S®ZNBT vector network analyzers are designed to precisely measure and characterize antenna performance over a wide frequency range, from 100 kHz up to the sub-THz range. They are compatible with industry-standard software tools, making it easy to incorporate them into existing workflows.

RF and microwave power meters can be integrated into the antenna measurement setup to further enhance measurement accuracy and reliability. These precision power sensors support a wide range of sensor-dependent measurement functions and can accommodate up to four power measurements simultaneously. Equipped with intuitive touchscreen interfaces and various remote interfaces, they simplify complex measurement tasks and integrate seamlessly into automated test setups.

In addition to these lab-based tools, Rohde & Schwarz also offers handheld solutions for field measurements. Devices such as the R&S®FPH handheld spectrum analyzer and R&S®ZPH handheld vector network analyzer offer a versatile range of functions for antenna and cable field testing. These devices are used to maintain the performance of RF and microwave transmission systems, providing comprehensive testing and troubleshooting for various transmission line types and antennas.

In collaboration with our partners, Rohde & Schwarz also provides additional equipment such as turntables, motion control systems and anechoic chambers for over-the-air (OTA) tests. Temperature-controlled anechoic chambers allow antenna performance to be characterized over a wide set of temperatures, ensuring reliable operation in harsh environments.

Benefits of our AESA testing solutions

When it comes to ensuring the performance and reliability of your EMSO and radar systems, Rohde & Schwarz provides unparalleled solutions. Our solutions offer comprehensive test coverage and support wide frequency ranges and high bandwidths. We offer lifetime equipment support, so you can rest assured that your investment in Rohde & Schwarz technology is protected.

Service Level Agreements (SLA) to ensure long-term system performance and availability, providing a solid framework for maintaining your systems at peak efficiency.
Long-standing market presence, extensive industry experience and in-depth domain knowledge, which enable us to deliver sophisticated, state-of-the-art solutions.
Local service and application support, backed by application engineers with a deep understanding of EMSO and radar systems, for immediate and personalized assistance whenever needed.

Want to know more about our AESA testing solutions?

Products for AESA antenna testing

Vector network analyzers

Rohde & Schwarz portfolio of high-performance network analyzers up to 1.1 THZ and standard multiport solutions up to 48 ports.

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Analog and digital signal generators

Rohde & Schwarz analog and digital signal generators featuring class-leading characteristics up to 67 GHz.

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Spectrum and signal analyzers

Rohde & Schwarz signal and spectrum analyzer portfolio from 1 GHz to full-featured 85 GHz spectrum analyzers with 8.3 GHz of analysis bandwidth.

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Broadband amplifiers

Rohde & Schwarz solid-state broadband amplifiers with exceptional RF performance for generating RF power up to 13 kW in the frequency range of 4 kHz to 6 GHz.

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