Phased array element in-situ insertion phase measurement

A technique to measure phased array antenna phase shifter insertion phase variations in the field is presented. The measured insertion phase variations are stored in a phase map which is used to compensate the beam collimation data for the insertion phase variations, thereby improving the collimation. Failed elements are also identified by anomalous phase shift behavior. The only ancillary equipment required is a test horn rigidly mounted in the near field of the antenna