Implementation of optimized 6-bit phase angle calculation from phase gradients for T/R Modules in active phased array radars using FPGA

The Beam steering controller plays a vital role in steering the antenna beam of active phased array radars where beams are formed electronically. The Transmit / Receive Modules (T/R Modules) are key parts of advanced phased array radar systems. In order to produce beam pattern from multiple radiating elements, the phase angle of each T/R Module must be assigned with a calculated value. When Common phase gradients are sent to all Transmit / Receive Unit Controllers (TRUCs) , the respective phase values are calculated for the radiating element associated with them. The position of a T/R Module in the array decides the phase angle of corresponding radiating element. In this paper, the calculation of optimized 6-bit phase angle from the phase gradients carried out using FPGA is discussed in a detailed manner. Also the use of logic core and quantization of phase values are discussed elaborately. The implementation is carried out using the Xilinx Spartan chip XC2S100tq144-5. Also synthesis and Place and Route reports are discussed.