Linear arrays with very large scanning capability

Medium gain mobile antennas for satellite links impose solutions based on small linear arrays. The design constraints in the case when printed linear arrays and large scanning are considered together are examined. It is shown that scanning losses can be compensated by finding a positive interference of the mutual couplings with the provided illumination law in the desired pointing direction. Experimental measurements are presented showing a small loss of gain (<4 dB) for directions >or=60 degrees with excellent efficiency (near 100%). Smaller losses ( approximately=2 dB) can be achieved by using higher permittivity substrates ( approximately=6) with a good efficiency, but a reduced bandwidth.<>