Integrated compensation network for low mutual coupling of planar microstrip antenna arrays

This paper presents design of low mutual coupling arrays with some of the concepts formulated by Hannan and Amitay of interconnections between antenna elements. In the approach, lumped element matching is used between antenna elements below the array face. By proper choice of these components, impedance matching over wide scan regions was demonstrated. This work differs significantly since the goal is to minimize the total noise coupling. Also, due to the use of distributed microwave components and planar circuit technologies, the coupling compensation between antennas is accomplished with directional couplers. A novel, compact multi-port directional coupler provides the small size and flexibility for making a successful compensation network in this manner.