Thinning algorithm for reducing peak sidelobe levels of discrete rectangular planar arrays

The proposed thinning algorithm provides a low-cost approach to control peak sidelobe levels of a uniformly fed antenna array in the transmit mode. The algorithm quantizes a desired taper to be used on a uniformly spaced planar array and evaluates the feasibility of thinning the array by terminating elements. It determines which elements are to remain active given requirements of peak sidelobe level, interelement spacing, and the number of rows and columns in the array. Experimental data show that predictable results are possible. Thinning the array allows the peak sidelobe requirement to be satisfied without any redesign of the antenna array, feed networks, or power devices. It is recommended that this technique be used in the reduction of peak sidelobes in large array antennas where it is not feasible to control the amplitudes on each element. Consequences of thinning an array on transmit include an increased beamwidth of the mainbeam which causes a reduction in the gain and radiation power of the array.<>