Antenna Pattern Comparisons used in NIST 18-term error assessments on numerous near-field ranges

Antenna Pattern Comparisons are a key technique used in evaluating the performance of a near-field antenna range. In a prior paper by the authors[3], we discussed the comparison technique and established a methodology for performing the comparisons. This paper will review the application of this technique on a number of near-field ranges in which NSI was contracted to perform NIST 18-Term Range Error Assessments. These Error Assessments were performed with different antennas, and different range sizes and configurations. An overview of the pattern comparison results will be shown to help highlight the usefulness of the technique and the typical results and typical uncertainty levels in real world applications.