Ku-Band 384-Channel 2D Active Phased Array: 16×24 Aperture Topology, Dual-Axis Scanning, and Transmit Performance

In radar tracking and directional communications requiring rapid beam positioning across broad angular sectors, two-dimensional active beam steering avoids the latency associated with mechanical repositioning by using planar phase control. Operating across the 15.2 GHz to 17 GHz frequency band, the Ku-Band 384-Channel Two-Dimensional Phased Array Antenna incorporates 384 active functional units, an antenna-in-package (AIP) module, an internal power divider module, and sum/difference networks into an integrated front-end measuring 315 mm × 315 mm × 39 mm with a total mass of ≤4 kg, providing a normal system EIRP of ≥81.5 dBm at room temperature.

Aperture Configuration: 16 × 24 Active Scanning Topology

The 384-channel active array uses a 16 × 24 planar configuration for two-dimensional electronic steering:

• Aperture Grid Structure: The radiating face integrates 384 discrete elements arranged in a matrix of Nx = 16 along the azimuth axis and Ny = 24 along the pitch axis.
• Integrated Subsystem Packaging: The assembly combines the antenna structure, AIP module, internal power divider module, and sum/difference network within a unified metal housing.
• Channel-Level Signal Synthesis: During transmission, the internal corporate distribution network splits the input drive signal across all 384 active channels, applying phase and amplitude compensation to form the transmitted beam.
• Polarization Baseline: Vertical polarization is the typical configuration across the radiating aperture, with horizontal polarization available as an optional modification.

Symmetric Dual-Axis Electronic Steering Across Azimuth and Pitch

The 2D active scanning architecture supports identical angular coverage across both steering planes:

• Azimuth Electronic Steering (±45°): The array provides electronic scanning across an azimuth sweep range of ±45°.
• Pitch Electronic Steering (±45°): The array supports electronic scanning across a pitch sweep range of ±45°, matching the angular coverage of the azimuth axis.
• Beam-Pointing Precision: The beam-pointing error is specified at ≤0.2° within the stated ±45° scan range.

Transmit Signal Path: From 22 dBm Drive Input to ≥81.5 dBm System EIRP

The transmitter architecture distributes and amplifies external RF drive signals across the 15.2 GHz to 17 GHz operating band:

• RF Input Excitation Window: The front-end accepts a nominal input drive level of 22 dBm ± 1.5 dBm.
• Power Distribution and Amplification: The internal power divider routes the input excitation through the active amplification stages, where individual channel conditioning occurs.
• Per-Channel and Total Array Output: Individual active channels deliver a peak output power of ≥27 dBm. The full-array peak output power is specified at ≥52 dBm across the operating band.
• Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power (EIRP): At room temperature, the 384-unit active aperture provides a normal system EIRP of ≥81.5 dBm.
• Pulsed Duty Cycle Limits: The transmitter architecture supports operating duty cycles of up to 20%.

Mechanical Envelope, Power, and Interfaces

The 384-channel active array provides defined mechanical, thermal, and electrical integration boundaries:

• Chassis Envelope and Mass: The antenna measures 315 mm × 315 mm × 39 mm (±0.2 mm) and weighs ≤4 kg, providing a low-profile mechanical envelope.
• DC Power Supply Requirements: The internal conditioning circuitry operates from a wide DC supply range of 16 V to 40 V, delivered through a dedicated J30J-4-pin high-current connector. Total DC power consumption is specified at ≤300 W under a 20% operational duty cycle (pulse width: 1 µs).
• RF and Control Interfaces: The Ku-band RF signal interface utilizes an SMA connector. Array control is provided through a dedicated J30J_15TJL connector.
• Environmental Ratings: Operating temperatures range from -40 °C to +70 °C, with a storage rating of -50 °C to +70 °C.
• Surface Protection: The metal cavity features a bare or colored finish, while the radiating face is protected by a white primer coating.

Frequently Asked Questions (2D Array Architecture & Transmit Path)

Q: How is the 16 × 24 aperture used in the 384-channel architecture?

A: The 16 × 24 layout forms a 384-unit planar aperture within the active 384-channel architecture. It supports symmetric electronic scanning of ±45° in azimuth and ±45° in pitch, with a specified beam-pointing error of ≤0.2° within the stated scan range.

Q: What is the relationship between the 22 dBm input excitation and the full-array output power?

A: The 22 dBm ± 1.5 dBm level represents the specified RF input excitation to the array. The signal is distributed across the 384 active channels, with each channel specified to deliver ≥27 dBm peak output power, yielding a specified full-array peak output power of ≥52 dBm and a normal system EIRP of ≥81.5 dBm.

Q: What are the primary operating limits for the transmitter stage?

A: The array operates with duty cycles of up to 20%, drawing ≤300 W of DC power (at a 20% duty cycle and 1 µs pulse width) across a DC 16 V to 40 V supply range. Thermal management at the platform interface should maintain the unit within its -40 °C to +70 °C operating temperature range.