Practical Demonstration of a Self-Calibration Technique using an Element Level Digital Array

In this paper, we describe and demonstrate a self-calibration technique for digital arrays that takes advantage of the command and control flexibility afforded by element level digitization. We will show how this technique is able to remove any amplitude or time difference from transmit and receive channels simultaneously. The technique has significant advantages over conventional factory calibration as it is done "on the fly" without the need of external hardware. This means we can continuously calibrate radar systems in the field during mission timelines. The paper will describe the mathematics required for calibration and show the technique using a real time element level digital array prototype.