An Antenna Position Control System

Abstract

This article describes a method for remotely controlling angular positions of an antenna for use in radiation pattern measurements. The method is based on comparing the voltage across the potentiometer coupled to the antenna drive shaft to that of the position selector circuit. The error signals from the comparator circuit are then used to control motor rotation. The motor

was installed in a metal box and was coupled to the drive shaft by a gear train. The antenna under test installed on the shaft can be rotated back and forth within the range of 1800 around a vertical axis and can be stopped at any desired setting angle. Results from the test show that the error of

rotation is within + 10 for all rotated angles. The minimum increment angle of rotation was found to be 60