Scattering Parameter Measurements of the Long Wavelength Array Antenna and Front End Electronics

Abstract We present recent 2-port vector network analyzer (VNA) measurements of the complete set scattering parameters for antenna used within Long Wavelength Array (LWA) and associated front end electronics (FEEs). Full parameter yield not only reflection coefficient each polarization, S11 S22, but also coupling between polarizations, S12 S21. These had been previously modeled using simulations, direct obtained until now. The are to derive a frequency dependent impedance mismatch factor (IMF) which represents fraction power that is passed through antenna–FEE interface reflected due FEE. results from two-antenna experiment where hooked up separate port on VNA. This allows cross–antenna be measured all four possible polarization combinations. Finally, we apply newly IMF FEE forward gain corrections LWA data investigate how well they remove instrumental effects.