Antenna Tracking Systems and Phased Arrays

SAT 110 delves into the foundational concepts and practical applications of antenna tracking systems and phased arrays. The curriculum covers the mechanics and control systems of tracking pedestals, various feed types for optimal signal reception and transmission, and the electronic beam steering capabilities of phased array antennas. Students will explore signal processing techniques, motor control, and sensor integration essential for precise antenna positioning and beamforming. Additionally, the course addresses environmental challenges, including de-icing strategies and system protection. Through theoretical lessons and hands-on laboratory exercises, learners will gain a robust understanding of the configuration, operation, and maintenance of advanced antenna systems, preparing them for technical roles in fields requiring precise RF signal management and tracking.

InstructorJacob Calhoun

Prerequisites

SAT 101

Course outline

Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.

01Lesson 1: Introduction to Antenna Tracking Systems and Applicationslecture

02Lesson 2: Antenna Pedestal Mechanics and Drive Systemslecture

03Lesson 3: Antenna Feed Types and Signal Coupling Techniqueslecture

04Hands-on Lab: Pedestal Assembly and Basic Motor Controllab

05Lesson 5: Tracking Sensors and Control System Architectureslecture

06Lesson 6: Introduction to Phased Array Antennas and Beamforming Principleslecture

07Lesson 7: Phased Array Architectures and Element Designlecture

08Hands-on Lab: Feed Line Characterization and Array Element Simulationlab

09Lesson 9: RF Signal Processing for Tracking and Beamforminglecture

10Lesson 10: Environmental Protection and De-icing Systems for Antennaslecture

11Hands-on Lab: Tracking Algorithm Implementation and System Integrationlab

12Lesson 12: System Maintenance, Troubleshooting, and Diagnosticslecture

13Lesson 13: Advanced Tracking Techniques and Future Trendslecture

14Capstone Service Project: Antenna System Design and Operational Checkassignment

Syllabus

["Week 1: Lesson 1: Introduction to Antenna Tracking Systems and Applications","Week 2: Lesson 2: Antenna Pedestal Mechanics and Drive Systems","Week 3: Lesson 3: Antenna Feed Types and Signal Coupling Techniques","Week 4: Hands-on Lab: Pedestal Assembly and Basic Motor Control","Week 5: Lesson 5: Tracking Sensors and Control System Architectures","Week 6: Lesson 6: Introduction to Phased Array Antennas and Beamforming Principles","Week 7: Lesson 7: Phased Array Architectures and Element Design","Week 8: Hands-on Lab: Feed Line Characterization and Array Element Simulation","Week 9: Lesson 9: RF Signal Processing for Tracking and Beamforming","Week 10: Lesson 10: Environmental Protection and De-icing Systems for Antennas","Week 11: Hands-on Lab: Tracking Algorithm Implementation and System Integration","Week 12: Lesson 12: System Maintenance, Troubleshooting, and Diagnostics","Week 13: Lesson 13: Advanced Tracking Techniques and Future Trends","Week 14: Capstone Service Project: Antenna System Design and Operational Check"]