The Effect of Uncertainties on the Performance of Array Systems

This paper aims to investigate the effects of uncertainties present in an antenna array system by employing elements of differential geometry based on the concept of the array manifold. This study is mainly focused on uncertainties on the positions of the antenna array elements, which also reflect uncertainties in the carrier frequency. Such uncertainties are inherent in the manufacturing process of antenna arrays and can greatly impact on system performance. Their effects on various performance measures such as the accuracy of channel parameter estimation and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at the output of a number of receivers that employ antenna arrays is studied. The results of the study are particularly applicable to array design and calibration methods.