Phased array antenna testing arrangement

An arrangement for testing the performance of an electronic system employing a phased array antenna for electromagnetic radiation scanning of a sector in space comprising:

• a housing for bounding an anechoic chamber having an opening that is in registry with the phased array antenna during the performance of a testing operation;
• at least two testing antennas disposed in said chamber opposite said opening and within the near field of the phased array antenna, said testing antennas being located at the outer boundaries of the sector in space being scanned, and being operative for receiving and transmitting electromagnetic radiation transmitted and received respectively by the phased array antenna through said chamber during the testing operation;
• circuit means connected to said testing antennas for converting electromagnetic radiation received by said testing antennas into corresponding electrical signals;
• means connected to said circuit means for evaluating said electrical signals;
• polarimeter means connected to said testing antennas for producing a range of signals to at least one of said testing antennas to enable said testing antenna to emit electromagnetic radiation with a selectable polarization into said chamber and toward the phased array antenna;
• and
• a separating wall located opposite said opening and extending into said chamber from said housing, said wall separating said two testing antennas in order to provide isolation between signals transmitted from and received by said testing antennas.