Uncertainty Analysis of Linear Multi-Probe Array Systems for Fast Antenna Measurements

In this paper we present the measurement uncertainty analysis of a linear Multi Probe Array (MPA) system suited for fast testing of medium and high directive antennas. As proved in previous publications, a MPA allows to significantly reduce the measurement time of a conventional Planar Near Field (PNF) system based on the mechanical scanning with a single probe. Due to its unavoidable increased complexity, a MPA system requires dedicated calibration steps and corrections to compensate for the non-ideal uniformity of the sensors and their radiation pattern. The residual errors of such compensation techniques are taken into account in this analysis together with other error sources, such as multiple reflections, scan truncation, probe position errors and room scattering.