Accurate source number detection for low-cost nested array

This paper presents an accurate source number detection method for low-cost array system based on nested array and Khatri-Rao product approaches. Source number estimation accuracy can be enhanced by increasing the number of array elements, but it is often limited due to hardware and software cost. The authors have already proposed a low-cost array receiver system using switches which can reduce receiver hardware costs while preserving high DOA estimation accuracy. However, it requires source number information in advance of estimating DOAs, as many DOA estimation methods require. The proposed source number detection method for low-cost array employs nested array and KR product approaches to compensate sparse array input signal. Performance of the proposed method is evaluated through computer simulation.