Diagonal Polarized Pin-Based Cavity Antenna Array in Planar Technology

This contribution describes the design and characterization of a very compact 8-element proximity fed cavity antenna array realized completely in PCB technology. The cavities are formed by the placement of a series of through pins (vias) along a rectangular outline. Micro-strip lines excite the structure, and slot coupling is used to feed the individual radiating cavities. The elements are linearly polarized, but are arrayed with a diagonal orientation. The configuration allows for defining a single multifunction system that combines functionalities as radar and ESM in X-band. A -10 dB bandwidth of near 20% is achieved with the antenna and -10 dB for |iquest_s | Lt 50deg over the majority of the design band. The main achievement of the array is the extreme efficiency, also in a design that resorts to very dense dielectrics.