| Summary: | The ongoing research of a wirelessly networked aperstructure digital phased array (WNADPA) at NPS has investigated the possibility of using a distributed opportunistic array for radar, where array elements are placed at any available area of the ship structure. This could give an array that is as large as the ship itself, with 360 degrees coverage. It has advantages in the areas of survivability and adaptability, and the profile of the ship could be kept low for better maneuverability and smaller radar cross section. The array elements are stand-alone transmit-receive (T/R) modules controlled over a wireless media, with no hardwire connection other than power supply. Phase and time synchronization are critical for the successful operation of the array. The focus of this thesis is on designing a phase synchronization concept, implementing it in existing T/R modules using Commercial of the Shelf (COTS) hardware, and performing validation measurements of the proposed phase synchronization process. The results verify that distribution and phase synchronization of a local oscillator signal over the free space channel are possible.
|
|---|
