Analysis of an infinite array of rectangular microstrip patches with idealized probe feeds

A solution is presented for the problem of an infinite array of microstrip patches fed with short current elements. The input reflection coefficient is calculated versus scan angle in an arbitrary scan plane, and the effects of substrate parameters and grid spacings are considered. The scan blindness phenomenom is observed and discussed in terms of a forced surface wave response. Measurements from waveguide simulators confirm the theory for thin substrates.