Fiber Based Phased Array Antennas

A phased array antenna is a multi-element antenna capable of agile electronic beam forming and steering requiring several hundred high frequency, wide bandwidth, interconnections. Conventional distribution methods using waveguide or coax are impractical because they exhibit high attenuation, limited bandwidth, sensitivity to EMI, temperature drifts, and phase instability. Additionally, for large numbers of antenna elements, the size and weight of such systems make them impossible for large scale implementation on communication satellites. RF signal distribution via fiber optic technology is a potential solution to these phased array antenna problems.