The Interpanel Gap Scattering Effect in a Compact Range

The compact range has become a popular measurement tool in the evaluation of microwave antennas in recent years and accordingly larger reflectors over larger frequency bands are required. Those reflectors can be built to the required accuracies, but they have to be assembled from many panels which introduce interpanel gaps. The electromagnetic scattering produced by the gaps may affect the uniformity of the field in the quiet zone of the compact range. This paper will quantify the electromagnetic effects of the gaps by means of an analytical and experimental study of the problem.