Phased Array Beamforming Network

Signal Chain Walkthrough

A phased array antenna steers its beam electronically by adjusting the phase of each element's signal. No mechanical movement is required. Each element has its own T/R module containing a phase shifter, amplifier, and switch.

Phase Shifters

Digital phase shifters (typically 5-7 bits, giving 360°/32 = 11.25° resolution) apply progressive phase delays across the array. The beam points in the direction where the phase-shifted signals add constructively. A phase increment of Δφ between elements steers the beam to angle θ = arcsin(Δφ/(k·d)), where k is the wavenumber and d is the element spacing.

T/R (Transmit/Receive) Modules

Each element has its own PA (for transmit) and LNA (for receive), switched by a T/R switch. This distributed amplification architecture provides high EIRP (effective isotropic radiated power) without requiring a single high-power amplifier. Total EIRP scales as N² (N elements × N times array gain).

Beam Controller

Sets the phase state of each element via a digital control bus (SPI, serial). Can update all phase states in microseconds, enabling rapid beam scanning, null steering, and multi-beam operation in advanced implementations.