High-performance compact range test antenna for FR2 band

This paper presents a highly efficient Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR) antenna operating in the 24GHz52GHz band. The main body of the reflector is a parabolic surface, with its extended part mixed with elliptical curved edges. The parameters of the mixed curved edges are optimized using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to produce minimal diffraction fields under design constraints. The feed employs an axially slotted corrugated horn, characterized by a wide beam, low cross-polarization, and symmetrical wideband radiation patterns. The designed compact field antenna was simulated using FEKO software. Simulation results indicate that the antenna's aperture efficiency is as high as 53% and it exhibits excellent quiet zone performance, providing new insights and methods for OTA testing.