| This thesis describes the design and construction of a computer controlled 1 GHz phased array device. The device is capable of varying and controlling the phases and magnitudes of its output RF signals over a range of 360 degrees and 30 dB, respectively. This device could be used for the experimental verification of a newly proposed concept of electromagnetic radiation from an array of patch antennas.; The design, construction and testing of a 3 x 4 phased array driver is presented. It uses transmission line phase shifters and voltage-variable attenuators to achieve the desired phase and magnitude variations. The results obtained from various tests of this device are not consistent with its design specifications and was therefore replaced by another phased array design that uses a different architecture.; The new device is designed to drive a 4 x 4 patch antenna array. Its design, construction, and measurements are presented. A single driver is first designed and its architecture is applied to the design of a 16 channel computer-controlled 1 GHz phased array driver. This device is capable of varying and controlling the magnitudes and phases of its output RF signals. The outputs are computer controlled and accuracy is maintained by comparing feedback phase and magnitude values with pre-calibrated ones. Any desired relative phase shift may be obtained at the outputs with up to 30 dB of magnitude variation, having an accuracy of +/-5° and +/-0.5 dB, respectively. Its 16 channels consume 20.4 watts of power from a 17 Vdc supply. |
