INSTRUCTIONS

INSTRUCTIONS

I. Introduction:

An array of identical antennas will produce a net pattern that is equal to that antenna's orignal pattern multiplied by the array factor. This demonstration allows you to define an arbitrary array an returns the array factor function and plots of the array factor pattern.

II. Linear arrays:

To plot the array factor pattern of a linear array (an array aligned along the Z axis) use AF[theta,array] and AFdemo[array]. AF[] returns the function for further manipulation. AFdemo[] prints out the array factor function, plots the array of point sources itself, and then plots the array factor as a function of theta on 2D cartesian axes and then on a 2D polar coordinate system. Go to the Java linear array demonstrations to get an intuitive feel for the patterns of various array configurations.

Form of linear array: {{z1,amplitude1,phase1},...,{zN,amplitudeN,phaseN}}

Amplitude is in arbitrary units of power or current, phase is in radians and and position is in terms of wavelength.

III. Three-Dimensional arrays:

To plot general array structures use AF3D[theta,phi,array] and AF3Ddemo[array]. AF3D[] returns the array factor function. AF3Ddemo[] prints the function; plots the array itself and then the array factor. Use the VRML rendition option for an interactive Three-Dimension object that you can analyze from all angles and perspectives.

Form of 3D array: {{{x1,y1,z1},amplitude1,phase1},...,{{xN,yN,zN},amplitudeN,phaseN}}

Amplitude is in arbitrary units of power or current, phase is in radians and and position is in terms of wavelength.

IV. General Information:

  • Use the PlotPoints->N option to increase the plots resolution. (All options entered will be passed to the internal plotting functions of the demos).

  • Some complex arrays with high plotting resolutions can take a while. To submit a job for later viewing enter a job title, a brief description of your input and you e-mail address. When your job is completed you will be notifed by email and you job will be added to a list of completed tasks for your viewing.

  • VRML viewing requires a VRML browser or plug-in. VRWEB is the VRML viewer we recommend. It has a full color display with the Mathematica object generated here.

    • Up to Array Factor Plotting