Time-Domain versus frequency-domain approach for an accurate simulation of phased arrays

In this paper, a general comparison is presented between time-domain and frequency-domain simulation schemes of phased arrays. A series of Vivaldi arrays are simulated with finite integral time-domain (FITD) and frequency-domain finite element method (FEM) in terms of its far field characteristic like radiation pattern and gain. Three finite arrays of 10 by 10, 20 by 20, and 30 by 30 are simulated using FITD. The results are compared with that of the same arrays by linear combination of a unit Vivaldi antenna simulated with FEM. It is concluded that for small arrays time domain is more accurate while for large ones frequency domain method is more superior in terms of computer time and memory.