Antenna metrology for 100–500 GHz: A new approach

A typical near-field scanning range for antenna measurements is based on simple translation stages (planar) or stacked rotators (spherical), or both (cylindrical). Above 100 GHz, problems arise in both specialized waveguide components, such as precision rotators, and in positioning and alignment accuracy. NIST is pioneering a new approach based on an off-the-shelf, industrial six-degrees-of-freedom, articulated-arm robot. Pattern measurements at 118 GHz and 183 GHz, and positioning accuracies within 25 μm confirm the effectiveness of the approach.