A planar array refers to an arrangement of antenna elements in a two-dimensional plane, usually with elements arranged in rows and columns. This configuration allows the board to radiate or receive electromagnetic waves in multiple directions in the plane of the board. Planar arrays are often used in radar systems, communications antennas, and satellite communications dishes where directional control, beam steering, and coverage over a wide angular range are required. Elements of a planar array can be individually controlled in phase and amplitude to achieve beamforming, allowing the array to electronically steer the beam without physically moving the antenna structure.
Planar arrays are commonly used for applications requiring versatile coverage patterns and beam agility. They are particularly effective in radar systems for scanning and tracking targets over a wide azimuthal and altitude angle range. In communications systems, planar arrays are used to establish directional communications links with high gain and reduced interference, making them suitable for point-to-point communications and satellite communications applications. The ability to electronically steer beams in planar arrays improves operational flexibility and efficiency compared to fixed-direction antennas.
The main difference between a planar array and a linear array is their dimensional arrangement of the antenna elements. While planar arrays are arranged in a two-dimensional plane with rows and columns of elements, linear arrays consist of antenna elements arranged in a single row or axis. Line arrays radiate or receive electromagnetic waves primarily in one direction along the array axis, providing beamforming capabilities in a specific azimuthal plane. In contrast, planar arrays provide beamforming capabilities in the azimuthal and elevation planes in the array plane, providing wider coverage and beam steering flexibility.
The phased array concept involves using multiple antenna elements arranged in a specific geometric pattern to direct the direction of electronically transmitted or received radio waves, without physically moving the antenna structure. Phased arrays use phase shifts to adjust the phase of signals across individual elements, allowing constructive interference in desired directions and destructive interference in undesired directions. This capability allows progressive arrays to electronically steer beams, quickly change beam direction, and adapt to changing operational requirements such as tracking moving targets or communicating with multiple users simultaneously. Phased arrays find applications in radar systems, satellite communication, wireless communication networks, and aerospace technologies.
The term “aerial array” is a synonym for “antenna array” and refers to a configuration of multiple antennas designed to operate collectively to achieve specific radiation or reception characteristics. Aerial arrays are used in various applications such as broadcast, radar, wireless communication and satellite communication to improve signal reception, increase directivity and improve overall system performance. The use of “aerial” may be more common in some regions or older literature to describe antenna arrays used in broadcast and communications applications, reflecting their role in transmitting or receiving electromagnetic waves efficiently over long distances or in specific coverage areas.