On the accuracy of EM simulations of phased arrays modeled by far-field sources

Analysis of the accuracy of EM simulations of antenna arrays and arrays in vicinity of complex structures, where array elements are modeled by using far field sources, is presented in this paper. Antenna arrays with strong mutual coupling between the elements are the main problem under consideration. It is shown that if the antenna elements are minimum scattering antennas fed by current generators, an array can be accurately modeled by using far-field sources even in case of very strong mutual coupling between the elements.