Prompt aperture efficiencies of impulse radiating antennas with arrays as an application

A concept of prompt aperture efficiency is introduced for the purpose of comparing and optimizing the performance of impulse radiating antennas (IRAs). The aperture efficiencies of popular lens and reflector IRAs are computed as the ratios of peak radiated power densities on boresight compared with that produced by an ideal IRA with an aperture of equal area and equal total input power. Loss of aperture efficiency occurs through two distinct mechanisms: from power that falls outside the aperture and is lost and from nonuniform power and polarization distributions within the aperture. Both loss mechanisms are addressed, and means for increasing efficiencies are identified. The optimum aperture for a given feed structure is derived. Prompt aperture efficiencies approaching 100% are feasible in TEM-horn arrays and similar structures.