A millimeter compact range

The compact range mechanically collimates electromagnetic energy, thus creating a plane wave useful for testing antennas in a far field environment. Since this collimation can be achieved in a relatively small space, the tests can be performed in an environmentally controlled chamber. With the increasing use in both military and commercial applications of antennas operating at millimeter wavelengths, there is increasing need for small compact ranges operating in the 26.5 to 100 GHz frequency range. The paper describes the development of a small compact range with a two foot diameter test zone that operates from 26.5 GHz to greater than 100 GHz