Feed Network Optimization For Currents In Amplitude Based Beam Steerable Arrays

Beam steering which is achieved conventionally using phase shifters can also be achieved by using attenuators in the feed network in Amplitude Steerable arrays. These attenuators provide the necessary weights to the signals entering the antenna elements. The effect of mutual coupling is much more pronounced in the amplitude steerable arrays due to closer spacing which manifests as currents to the elements being changed. This paper addresses a method to compensate for the effect of mutual coupling on the currents by designing an algorithm that optimizes the characteristics of the attenuators in the feed network in order to ensure proper currents are delivered to the antennas.