New Phased Array Technology Leverages Polarization for Superior Performance

By Rick Sturdivant, Ph.D.

Message me to get your copy of my new ebook “Top 10 Mistakes in Antenna Development (And How to Avoid Them)”. It useful for antenna and phased array technology.

SpectrumSpiral(TM) phased arrays take advantage of the physics of polarization to give breakthrough performance for satellite, communication, and radar systems. Figure 1 is an image of one of the phased arrays I have developed that use the SpectrumSpiral(TM) technology. It leverages the science of polarization physics and spiral antennas to achieve breakthrough antenna performance.

The phased array in the figure has 196 active elements. I conceived this array for peak performance in L-Band. A distinguishing feature is that it has multiple simultaneous antenna beams. The phase shifters use 6-bits and includes amplitude control of 5-bits. I developed an array calibration method for this array that was efficient and resulted in excellent performance. Its polarization performance was superior over the required frequency range.

If Polarization Is Mysterious To You, This May Help

You may not realize it, but if you have ever worn a pair of polarized sunglasses, then you have taken advantage of polarization in electromagnetic waves. As can be seen in Figure 2, a lens from polarized sunglasses block horizontally polarized light. That’s why sunglasses are so popular while driving a car since they remove the glare caused by polarized sunlight. Light and radio signals are electromagnetic waves, just at different wavelengths. Therefore, they share many different characteristics such as polarization.

Despite the everyday use of polarization in sunglasses, most people are unaware of the existence of polarization, let alone its profound implications for phased arrays. However, polarization is key to unlocking unprecedented system-level performance in satellite, communication, and radar system phased arrays that were once thought impossible. That’s where this new technology I am describing comes in.

SpectrumSpiral(TM) phased arrays take advantage of the physics of polarization to deliver unprecedented phased array performance. As a result, this technology delivers previously out of reach capabilities and puts it in your hands.

Appropriate For Small or Large Format Phased Arrays

I have demonstrated SpectrumSpiral(TM) phased arrays for both small and large format systems. For instance, I developed a small 12” x 12” phased array with 16 elements operating at L-band. This size array is appropriate for many different applications, but it was designed for wireless communication.

I also developed a small line array of 16 elements operating a S-Band.

Large format arrays have also been developed with this technology. For example, I developed a 1meter x 1meter phased array using SpectrumSpiral(TM) for a satellite communications system with 196 antenna elements. Figure 3 shows its measured antenna pattern performance.

The smallest phased array I developed using this technology is a four-element system used in low data rate satellite communication at L-Band. The bottom line is that SpectrumSpiral(TM) technology can be used in a wide range of applications and over a wide range of sizes and it delivers on polarization physics every time.

Conclusion

In summary, SpectrumSpiral(TM) phased arrays are a unique solution for antennas and leverage polarization physics to deliver superior performance. This makes them a valuable solution for satellite, radar, and wireless communication systems. I provided a brief description of several phased arrays I have developed using this technology and measured data on one of them. This technology has proven to be a vital solution for several systems.

About

Dr. Rick Sturdivant is a hands-on engineer and technical leader specializing in RF and microwave engineering, antennas, and phased arrays. With decades of experience in microelectronics, RF hybrids, and system development, he has designed and delivered solutions for radar, communication, 5G, IoT, and satellite systems. His expertise spans components such as high-power amplifiers, phase shifters, filters, and advanced antenna arrays.

Dr. Sturdivant provides cutting-edge engineering services in antenna design, phased arrays, and RF electronics. His work has led to innovations in satellite communications, digital beamforming, and radar systems.

Beyond engineering, Dr. Sturdivant is a recognized thought leader and published author, having written multiple books on microwave packaging, phased arrays, and RF circuits. His research has been featured in IEEE conferences, addressing advancements in digital beamforming, IoT connectivity, and satellite communications.

With a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering and B.S. and M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Dr. Sturdivant brings a strategic, multidisciplinary approach to RF system development. Whether designing cutting-edge antennas or developing new RF systems, he helps companies achieve high-performance and mission-critical solutions.

For businesses seeking expertise in RF, antennas, and phased arrays, Dr. Sturdivant’s knowledge and experience provide a distinct competitive advantage in today's evolving wireless and defense industries.