Design and simulations for a cylindrical polarimetric phased array weather radar

Array simulation for the cylindrical polarimetric phased array radar (CPPAR) is presented. Array lattices and element separations are examined using simulation to determine the optimal configuration that has the desired sidelobe level and cross-polarization isolation needed for quality precipitation measurements. The simulation results are verified by the linear and ring array theory. Different lattice, such as rectangular and triangular lattice, and their corresponding performances are compared, yielding the minimum number of array elements. Error effects caused by mechanical positioning, phase shifter, and elements failures, are also examined. Tolerable error limits are provided for system design.