Arralis has launched a new Ka-band phased array beam steering antenna. The KKa-FPA-1730-A has the functionality of -60 to 60 degree steering in both azimuth and elevation direction, while also meeting ITU regulations regarding beamwidth and sidelobes which is achieved through amplitude taper. Arralis engineers have designed the beam steering antenna to have a very low profile while still offering a high gain with 64 elements. The antenna is electronically steered by using analog phase shifters and amplitude manipulation to steer the beam and shape the radiation pattern features which will suit many market applications.

Arralis’ engineers identified issues with existing technology within the market and have engineered a solution that requires no moving parts, offers high performance and is simple to install. Two-thirds of existing flat panel antennas are still mechanically steered. This has limitations in terms of size, weight and reliability. In addition, performance is compromised by the tracking speed required for low earth orbit and high data rate satellite tracking. A flat panel beam steering antenna can acquire and track multiple satellites with one antenna array; the benefits are simple operation, low-cost installation and long-term reliability.

The antenna element spacing for this design is small due to the frequency of operation. This makes the total spacing tight which affects the fitting of all components including the beam-forming ICs, power distribution network, digital routing etc. while keeping a low-profile design. Furthermore, it is a complex and highly integrated design consisting of a Multilayer PCB and incorporating all components within a reasonably sized board. Sequential rotation of the radiating elements is employed to achieve a wider circular polarization bandwidth. The design also offers different and flexible polarizations according to customers’ requirements.

The low profile and wide steering range make this Arralis beam steering antenna ideal for satellite communication on the move as it can easily be fitted to vehicles without affecting their performance and provides wide coverage.

Arralis’ beam steering antenna comes with a specifically designed Graphical User Interface (GUI), which demonstrates the capability of the antenna and facilitates the measurement process. The antenna can also be integrated into users’ existing systems.

The KKa-FPA-1730-A beam-steering antenna is complemented by Arralis’ range of Ka-band transceivers and microcontrollers. Its design allows it to operate with all common software-defined radios and modems.

Arralis’ will be showcasing this solution next week at Space Tech Expo Europe on the 15-17th of November in Bremen, Germany. This low profile, active Phased Array Beam Steering Antenna has many vital applications for providing satellite communications on the move for aviation and ground communications in remote areas.

Click here to learn more about KKa-FPA-1730-A from Arralis.

Click here to see everything RF's coverage of Space Tech Expo Europe 2022.