Antenna pattern measurements in the V-band — a low-cost test range

A simple and cost-effective test range for the measurement of antenna radiation patterns in the F-band is described. The arrangement enables accurate antenna measurements without resorting to the use of expensive anechoic chambers. A procedure for the alignment of the antenna phase center with respect to the rotation axis of the turntable, on top of which the antenna under test is fastened, is presented. The measurement procedure has been validated by comparing the measured radiation pattern of a standard-gain horn antenna with the results predicted by means of electromagnetic analysis tools.