A Computer-Controlled Adaptive Antenna System

The problem of active pattern control in multibeam or phased array antenna systems is one that is well suited to technologies based upon microprocessor feedback control systems. Adaptive arrays can be realized by incorporating microprocessors as control elements in closed-loop feedback paths. As intelligent controllers, microprocessors can detect variations in arrays and implement suitable configuration changes. The subject of this paper is the application of the Howells-Applebaum power inversion algorithm in a C-band multibeam antenna system. A proof-of-concept, microprocessor controlled, adaptive beamforming network (BFN) was designed, assembled, and subsequent tests were performed demonstrating the algorithm´s capacity for nulling narrowband jammers.