Improvement and validation of design tools for MM-wave instrument antennas by advanced measurement techniques

The prediction of the RF performance of large reflector antennas at (sub-)mm-wave frequencies is a big challenge for its modeling with state-of-the-art simulation tools. It is well known that the implementation of measured and highly accurate data for the feed pattern, the actual surface contour of the reflector as well as internal antenna alignment are required for accurate modeling. Within a previous paper at EuCAP 2009 in Berlin, the first steps concerning improvement of accurate modeling of mm-wave instrument antennas could be presented. Within this paper, the final results on test setup optimization as well as generation of accurate pattern prediction data can be shown. Firstly, the optimized RF test setup will be described. Secondly, final recommendations on reflector surface data measurements will be given. Finally the comparison of antenna pattern at 501 GHz will be shown for the previous status as well as for the latest status.