An active phased array antenna packaging scheme

Active phased array antennas use a large number of transmit/receive (T/R) modules at the antenna aperture. These antennas require complex RF power divider/combiner beamforming networks. DC power is generally provided by distributing power supplies at the antenna aperture that provide DC power to a group of T/R modules. High power T/R modules for phased arrays typically require liquid cooling. A typical phased array, then, might have a large number of RF, DC and logic connections at the antenna aperture. Since most of the active components are distributed at the aperture, in order to maintain the antenna performance, it is necessary to provide a means of easily replacing these components when they fail. A typical phased array will have thousands of RF, DC, logic and fluid connections. We describe a packaging scheme for an active phased array antenna that is easy to maintain, and requires very few disconnections for repairs.