Abstract: A wireless communication receiver (20) comprises an antenna structure (22) and a joint searcher and channel estimator (24). The antenna structure acquires dimensionally differentiated signals which are concurrently utilized by the joint searcher and channel estimator for determining both a time of arrival and channel coefficient. The wireless communication receiver can be either a mobile terminal or a network node (e.g., a radio access network node such as a base station node, also called Node-B). In “spatial” embodiments, the antenna structure comprises an array of plural antennas. The signals acquired by different antennas of the array are dimensionally differentiated with regard to a spatial dimension, and the time of arrival and a composite channel coefficient are essentially concurrently determined by the joint searcher and channel estimator.

Abstract: A method for positioning a dielectric dome covered satellite dish adapted to be connected to a satellite receiver, by inputting an elevation command into a control console corresponding to a geographic location of the satellite dish and then depressing a single key on the control console to activate an azimuth drive system on the satellite dish. The operator depresses any key on the console to stop azimuth rotation of the satellite dish upon viewing a satellite signal. The satellite signal is fine tuned by appropriately depressing the right arrow key, a left arrow key, an up arrow key, or a down arrow key to effect pointing of the satellite dish.

Abstract: The invention includes a mechanical scanning feed and a spherical lens antenna system. The mechanical feed includes a waveguide, which has a movable wall assembly that contains a guide slot. The moveable wall portion also includes an end wall that is located proximate to the guide slot to prevent leakage of the propagating energy out of the waveguide. The mechanical feed also includes a drive mechanism, which moves the moveable wall assembly along the waveguide in a direction that is parallel to the direction of propagation of the energy. This allows the guide slot to be positioned at any elevation angle to allow a portion of the propagating energy to exit through the guide slot. This in combination with the waveguide being able to be rotated 360 degrees about the spherical lens provides the antenna system with nearly spherical coverage.

Abstract: A three-axis antenna positioner has an X-Y over azimuth configuration, and includes an azimuth drive assembly, an X-axis drive assembly, and a Y-axis drive assembly. Each drive assembly is independently operable. The azimuth drive assembly imparts 540° azimuthal rotational motion to an antenna about an azimuth axis. The X-axis drive assembly rotates the antenna about a horizontal X-axis at elevation angles between ?90° and +90°. The Y-axis drive assembly rotates the antenna about a Y-axis at elevation complement angles between ?2° and +105°. The azimuth axis, the X-axis, and the Y-axis all intersect at a common intersection point, and are mutually orthogonal. A controller operates each drive assembly so as to minimize antenna tracking velocity and acceleration. Each drive assembly may include dual drives, and may be operated in a bias drive mode to substantially eliminate backlash.

Abstract: Measurements for handoff are made by a wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) operating with a switched beam antenna in a wireless communication system. The switched beam antenna is a smart antenna generating a plurality of directional beams and an omni-directional beam. The WTRU measures signals from a plurality of cells with the omni-directional beam and/or one or more of the directional beams. The WTRU evaluates and reports to the network measurement of the omni-directional beam or the strongest beam for adding cells to an active set of cells. For removing cells from an active set of cells, the WTRU evaluates and reports to the network measurements of the antenna beam selected for communication with the active set cells.

Abstract: In a wireless tag gate reader that includes a plurality of antenna pairs that is disposed oppositely to each other so as to form a path space where a recognition target with a wireless tag goes through and a wireless tag reader connected to each of the antenna pairs, antenna pairs disposed at both ends of the path space of the wireless tag gate reader are disposed with a tilt angle so as to expand the width at the both ends of the path space.

Abstract: A radiocommunications antenna, notably for cellular radiotelephony network base station, of radiation lobe depointing type induced by variable phase adjustment unit including an actuating device including an actuator (13 or 41) whereof the displacement controls the phase shift, characterised in that it includes a module, insertable into the antenna and extractible therefrom, including a mechanical or electromechanical device co-operating with the actuating device to control the displacement of the actuator (13 or 41) when the module is installed in the antenna.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring a channel quality in wireless transmit/receive units (WTRUs) which are equipped with a subscriber based smart antenna. The WTRUs are equipped with a smart antenna so that the WTRU generates a plurality of directional beams and, optionally, an omni-directional beam. A dwell time is provided in a measurement period to switch a beam from an active beam to a non-active beam. The active beam is one of the plurality of directional beams or, optionally, the omni-directional beam, for communication with one or more serving base station(s). A beam is switched to a non-active beam at the initiation of the dwell time. Signals are received through the switched non-active beam, and samples of the received signals are generated. The samples are stored in a memory. Channel quality is measured using the samples, whereby the dwell time to measure the channel quality is minimized.

Abstract: A spacecraft is provided that includes a spacecraft body, a phased array coupled to a side of the spacecraft body by a first deployment couple, and a reflector coupled to the side of the spacecraft body by a second deployment couple. The first and second deployment couples are configured to permit stowing the reflector and the phased array parallel to the side of the spacecraft body. The reflector and the phased array share a common launch restraint mounting point on the side of the spacecraft body. A spacecraft is also provided that includes a spacecraft body, a mounting platform coupled to a side of the spacecraft body by a deployment couple, and a plurality of phased array assemblies. Each phased array assembly has a face with elements, and is coupled to the mounting platform by a gimbal. The deployment couple and the gimbals are configured to permit stowing the phased array assemblies parallel to the side of the spacecraft body and with the face of each phased array assembly oriented in a first direction.

Abstract: A controller is configured to operate an antenna positioner, which positions an antenna to track a moving object during a pass, in dual operational modes. The controller determines a maximum expected elevation angle during the pass. The controller de-activates the azimuth drive assembly and activates the x-axis drive assembly and the y-axis drive assembly, if the maximum expected elevation angle is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle. The controller de-activates the x-axis drive assembly, and activates the azimuth drive assembly and the y-axis drive assembly, if the maximum expected elevation angle is less than the predetermined angle.

Abstract: An antenna assembly includes at least two active or main radiating omni-directional antenna elements arranged with at least one beam control or passive antenna element used as a reflector. The beam control antenna element(s) may have multiple reactance elements that can electrically terminate it to adjust the input or output beam pattern(s) produced by the combination of the active antenna elements and the beam control antenna element(s). More specifically, the beam control antenna element(s) may be coupled to different terminating reactances to change beam characteristics, such as the directivity and angular beamwidth. Processing may be employed to select which terminating reactance to use. Consequently, the radiator pattern of the antenna can be more easily directed towards a specific target receiver/transmitter, reduce signal-to-noise interference levels, and/or increase gain.

Abstract: This invention relates to a phase shifting device, which generally comprises of rigid chassis, in the form of an aluminum plate, which can form a ground plane for feed lines (12) printed on a printed circuit board (16), which is mounted on the chassis, a rigid RF transparent block, which is fixed to an actuator arm and mounting bolts for slidably mounting block and actuator on the chassis. A flexi circuit, or the equivalent, (18) is attached to the block and is printed with generally c-shaped conductive strips (23), which form connections at open parts of the feed lines, in such a manner that movement of the block will cause changes in the effective lengths of the feed lines (12) and hence the relative phases of antennas fed by those feed lines.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically positioning an antenna aperture on a mobile platform in a manner to avoid blockages created by other components/subsystems on the mobile platform between the line of sight of the antenna aperture and a satellite and to avoid interference with other systems that share the mobile platform. In one embodiment, one or more linear support elements are moved by one or more corresponding motors to allow the antenna aperture to be re-positioned between a plurality of different positions. Methods for creating and using a blockage database are also disclosed.

Abstract: A mobile aerial communications antenna assembly including a mobile aerial assembly and a transportation system operably connected to the mobile aerial assembly, wherein the transportation system includes a lift source operable for generating a lift force and a plurality of directional forces, providing the mobile aerial assembly with maneuverability in three dimensions. The mobile aerial communications antenna assembly also including a communications system operably connected to the mobile aerial assembly, wherein the communications system includes a communications device operable for transmitting and receiving a plurality of mobile communications signals. The mobile aerial communications antenna assembly further including a control system in communication with the transportation system and/or the communications system, the control system operable for controlling the operation of the transportation system and/or the communications system.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus which reduces the number of phase shifters required in an antenna array. This is accomplished by supplying standing waves from the phase shifters to each of the radiating elements in a column or row. The standing waves in the rows are orthogonal to the standing waves in the columns. Each of the radiating elements combines the applied standing waves, the phases of which determine the angle of the resultant beam.

Abstract: An antenna beam controlling system (ABCS) for use in cellular communication systems. The ABCS allows the antenna's horizontal beam direction and horizontal beam width to be remotely adjusted for optimum reception and transmission. The ABCS, in its basic design, is comprised of at least one antenna reflector that incorporates a reflecting disk for receiving and transmitting RF signals, an antenna rotating assembly, and an electronic controller. All the elements of the ABCS are housed within an antenna enclosure, such as a radome, which is maintained in an environmentally shielded condition by a top and bottom cover. The electronic controller is designed to remotely activate the ABCS and to control and optimize the position of the antenna reflector.

Abstract: An ID detection device includes a transmit/receive antenna unit having a transmit/receive antenna and a movement mechanism for making the transmit/receive antenna scan, wherein a file folder in which the RFID tags are arranged close to one another in a row is set on the transmit/receive antenna unit, to make the transmit/receive antenna scan in a row direction in which the RFID tags are arranged.

Abstract: A method for synchronizing a CDMA receiver to a transmitter when an adaptive antenna is utilized to receive transmitted data, wherein a receiving antenna system is adapted between a 360° reception angle pattern (i.e., an omni-directional pattern) and a fixed reception angle (i.e., a directional pattern) by permitting the receiver to identify a pilot signal having the largest magnitude. The receiver minimizes interference from other pilot signals by steering antenna pattern nulls toward other transmitters. As a result, the time required for the receiver to acquire a valid pilot signal is significantly reduced.

Abstract: A high-performance portable microwave communication unit, consists of a directional antenna, RF transceiver and high-speed data/video processing unit for use in terrestrial point-to-point communications or as a ground station in a satellite communication system. For transportation, the unit is disassembled, folded down and stowed in two airline-checkable hard-shell cases. Each case can be equipped with shoulder straps such that it can be carried like a backpack, a set of wheels so it can be rolled, attached to a MOLLE frame so that it can be carried as a backpack and which allows attachment of accessories. The cases and their interiors have been designed to provide protection for the communication unit, while the construction of the unit itself involves novel mechanical features that allow for compact stowage as well as for rapid disassembly and assembly.

Abstract: A telecommunication system uses a satellite antenna showing on the horizontal plane, a sufficiently narrow radiation lobe to discriminate two adjacent satellites and showing on the vertical plane, a sufficiently narrow vertical lobe to ensure an adequate gain, but sufficiently ample to enable the reception of a certain number of satellites in adjacent orbital positions, by land stations distributed over a certain meridian arc without the necessity for antenna elevation angle variations.

Abstract: The purpose of the present invention is to provide a tilt angle deciding method and a system wherein tilt angles to diminish the deterioration rate of the entire system can be obtained in the radio communication system. The method comprises the steps of setting initial values of tilt angles; calculating the deterioration rate at the initial values of tilt angles; selecting an antenna for reducing a tilt angle; reducing the tilt angle of the selected antenna; calculating a deterioration rate at the time when the tilt angle is reduced; determining the continuity of repeating the processes, after repeating the series of processes for reducing these tilt angles, and increasing tilt angles repeatedly in the similar way. In addition, the method comprises the steps of outputting tilt angles for diminishing a small deterioration rate, and determining whether the processes of repeating the whole steps finish.

Abstract: In a lens antenna apparatus, a guide rail is formed along the outer surface of a hemispherical lens of a hemispherical lens antenna, and a plurality of radiators are positioned and fixed on the guide rail. When the lens antenna apparatus operates, the directivity of radio beams of the radiators is controlled by adjusting an AZ-axis rotating mechanism, an EL-axis rotating mechanism and an xEL-axis rotating mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a positioning system, in particular for carrying out Georadar acquisitions, and more in particular of a 3-dimension type. In one embodiment, the positioning system for data acquisition using a data acquisition system includes at least one antenna that is passed over a surface to be surveyed. The positioning system includes a plurality of guides side by side that can be coupled to the surface and a structure having a surface with at least one guide that engages the plurality of guides and which is suitable for being conducted along the plurality of guides. The structure includes the at least one antenna of the data acquisition system (FIG. 1).

Abstract: A maintenance platform for use in a rolling radar array system has a base capable of accommodating at least one person. The base is movably coupled to a support frame, along which the base can move along the longitudinal axis of the support frame rails. The height of support frame is generally equal to the radius of the rolling radar array wheel. The maintenance platform is coupled to weight assembly such that the base of the platform will be in a generally horizontal orientation when the radar array wheel is stopped.

Abstract: An antenna for controlling a beam direction both in azimuth and elevation is disclosed. An antenna comprises a ground plane, at least one active element, and a plurality of passive elements. Both an upper half and a lower half of the passive elements are connected to the ground plane with variable reactive loads, whereby elevation angle of the radio beam is controlled by adjusting the variable reactive loads. Alternatively, an antenna may comprise a radio frequency (RF) choke coupled to the ground plane, whereby an elevation angle of the radio beam is controlled by controlling the RF choke. Alternatively, an antenna comprises a variable lens for changing a wave front of a radio wave which is passing through the variable lens, whereby the beam width and direction are controlled by the variable lens.

Abstract: A directional antenna mechanism of a mobile radio tracking receiver, includes four antenna elements pivotably fastened to the body of the receiver. In use, the elements are turned to an operating position, in which they are pointed away from the body. After use, the elements can be turned to a transport position, in which they are placed inside the body in the direction of its longitudinal axis. At least two elements are connected to each other by a mechanism such that moving the first antenna element to the operating transport position also causes the second antenna element to move to the same position simultaneously. The mechanism includes a movable transmission rod inside the body, with toothings and toothed discs fastened to the ends of the elements, contacting the toothings. The rod is moved either manually by a lever fastened to the rod or by an actuator arranged inside the body.

Abstract: A transportable platform for a rolling radar array system has a base whereupon a track for an array wheel is provided. A segment of the track can be folded for transportation and deployed when the rolling radar array system is to be in an operational mode. The transportable platform has several adjustable supports for stabilizing and leveling the foldable segment of the track upon which the array wheel revolves as well as the base. The transportable platform may include a hitching element and a pair of wheels for towing and transportation.

Abstract: A system and method of aligning an antenna with a predetermined azimuth direction. The method includes determining an antenna azimuth direction and moving the antenna from the antenna azimuth direction towards a predetermined azimuth direction so as to align said antenna. This is accomplished in response to processed positioning data received by a global positioning system (GPS) receiver dish from a GPS system where the receiver dish is locatable at predetermined first and second positions away from the antenna. The system includes at least two reference targets affixed to the antenna, a reference tool operatively coupled to the targets, and a GPS receiver dish connected to the reference tool. The receiver dish is in communication with a GPS system for processing positioning data received therefrom to determine an antenna azimuth direction of the antenna and thereby enable alignment of said antenna by moving the antenna with a predetermined azimuth direction.

Abstract: A satellite broadcast receiver comprises an antenna, a tuner, a modulator, a FEC decoder, a microprocessor, and an antenna driver. The antenna receives the satellite signal and the tuner tunes the satellite signal received by the antenna, and the modulator modulates the satellite signal tuned by the tuner into digital signal, the FEC decoder corrects a position error of the satellite antenna using the signal modulated by the modulator, and outputs a corresponding output signal, and the microprocessor receives the signal modulated by the modulator and the output signal of the error corrector, and outputs a control signal which controls the position of the antenna, and the antenna driver drives the antenna in accordance with the control signal of the microprocessor. The satellite broadcast receiver enables a user to detect satellites fast and see satellite broadcast conveniently.

Abstract: A FM-CW radar system comprises a frequency modulated continuous wave digital generator that produces both in-phase (I) and quadrature-phase (Q) outputs to orthogonally oriented transmitter antennas. A linearly polarized beam is output from a switched antenna array that allows a variety of I-and-Q pairs of bowtie antennas to be alternately connected to the transmitter and receiver. The receiver inputs I-and-Q signals from another bowtie antenna in the array and mixes these with samples from the transmitter. Such synchronous detection produces I-and-Q beat frequency products that are sampled by dual analog-to-digital converters (ADC's). The digital samples receive four kinds of compensation, including frequency-and-phase, wiring delay, and fast Fourier transform (FFT). The compensated samples are then digitally converted by an FFT-unit into time-domain signals. Such can then be processed conventionally for range information to the target that has returned the FM-CW echo signal.

Abstract: An antenna beam controlling system (ABCS) for use in cellular communication systems. The ABCS allows the antenna's horizontal beam direction and horizontal beam width to be remotely adjusted for optimum reception and transmission. The ABCS, in its basic design, is comprised of at least one antenna reflector that incorporates a reflecting disk for receiving and transmitting RF signals, an antenna rotating assembly, and an electronic controller. All the elements of the ABCS are housed within an antenna enclosure, such as a radome, which is maintained in an environmentally shielded condition by a top and bottom cover. The electronic controller is designed to remotely activate the ABCS and to control and optimize the position of the antenna reflector.

Abstract: An apparatus for mounting and adjusting a satellite antenna in the azimuth and elevational planes. The present invention provides a base having a longitudinal axis adaptable to adjustably receive a mounting pole. A rotational mount is rotatably connected to the base and has a longitudinal axis extending at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base. A satellite antenna support is adaptable to receive a satellite antenna, and the satellite antenna support is adjustably coupled to the rotational mount for adjustment about a rotational axis wherein the rotational axis is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rotational mount. A first adjustment mechanism is coupled to the base and the rotational mount for providing fine azimuth adjustment of the satellite antenna. A second adjustment mechanism is coupled to the rotational mount and the satellite antenna support for \providing fine elevational adjustment of the satellite antenna.

Abstract: An azimuth drive for a radar array comprises an electromagnetic track mounted to a wheel on which the radar array is mounted; and a magnetized carriage assembly operatively coupled to the electromagnetic track and capable of moving along the track in a tangential direction in response to electromagnetic force from select portions of the track to thereby relocate the center of mass of the wheel on which the radar array is mounted, wherein a moment produced from relocation of the center of mass is used to rotate the wheel.

Abstract: A scanning antenna diversity system for mobile FM radio having an antenna system with controllable logic switch, wherein a different high-frequency reception signal is passed to a receiver. An IF signal turns on a diversity processor, which switches the logic switch into a different switching position in response to reception interference. The diversity processor has two interference detectors whose signals are passed to a logic circuit for evaluation and to produce a logic control signal, so that a different switching positions are selected at the earliest possible time after the occurrence of interference in the reception signal.

Abstract: A radio LAN master station system which provides long distance communication and suffers from small interference by another system located inside and/or outside of a service area comprises a transceiver, and a plurality of directional antennas each directed to a respective section with some angular spacing, through a power distributor which couples said transceiver with said antennas. Polarization plane of any antenna is orthogonal to polarization plane of an adjacent antenna.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for simplifying a signal processing process of a base station that receives signals through four branches using two two-branch polarized antennas for each sector. The base station receives signals through first and second branches of the first polarized antenna and third and fourth branches of the second polarized antenna, time-delays the signals received at the second and fourth branches so as to distinguish an offset thereof from an offset of the signals received at the first and third branches, adds the signal received at the first branch and the signal received at the second branch and time-delayed, and adds the signal received at the third branch and the signal received at the fourth branch and time delayed. A modem processor separates an offset distinguishable signal from the added signals.

Abstract: A phased array antenna system accommodating onto a platform for tracking a target moving relatively to the platform, the antenna system comprising a first planar active subsystem operable for receiving/transmitting an RF signal of a certain linear polarization direction and for selectively performing electronic scanning; a second, roll subsystem coupled to the active subsystem and operable for rotational movement of the active subsystem about a first axis perpendicular to a plane defined by the planar active subsystem; a third, elevation subsystem coupled to the second, roll subsystem and to a fourth azimuth subsystem, the azimuth subsystem defining a central axis of the antenna system and being operable for providing rotational movement of the first planar subsystem about the central axis, the elevation subsystem being configured to provide a certain angular orientation between the plane defined by the active subsystem and a plane defined by the azimuth subsystem, thereby allowing positioning the first plana

Abstract: An alignment device for aligning an antenna with a satellite. In one embodiment, the device includes a digital compass to provide an azimuth reading of the antenna when the device is removably affixed to the rear surface of the antenna reflector. In another embodiment, the device includes a first digital level that provides an elevation reading of the antenna when the device is affixed to the rear surface of the antenna reflector. Another embodiment includes first and second digital levels that cooperate to emit a skew signal that is indicative of the skew orientation of the antenna when the device is affixed to the antenna. In yet another embodiment by a transmitter that is placed adjacent to a television that is attached to a set top a box that is attached to the antenna.

Abstract: A satellite antenna station composed of: a dish for concentrating received electromagnetic energy; photovoltaic elements for supplying electric power to the station; and a positioning device controlled by a control unit. The positioning device is adjustable at least into a first position for optimizing reception of a signal from a satellite and into a second position for optimizing exposure of the photovoltaic elements to solar radiation.

Abstract: An antenna system may include a base having an opening therein, and a swing arm having a concave elongate shape and opposing ends pivotally connected to the base to permit a swinging motion of the swing arm within the opening in the base. A swing arm positioner may be connected between the swing arm and the base. The antenna system may also include an antenna carriage movable along the swing arm. An antenna carriage positioner may be connected between the antenna carriage and the swing arm. A positioning controller may be connected to the swing arm positioner and the antenna carriage positioner, and an antenna may be connected to the antenna carriage.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for setting up a satellite dish to receive satellite signals, including television satellite signals, with precise positioning and aiming of the satellite dish, including determination of a clear line of sight, azimuth orientation, elevation angle and skew or tilt angle. The apparatus includes a line of sight mechanism removably attachable to a satellite dish.

Abstract: A method for aligning a feed horn in an antenna system (100) is disclosed. The antenna system (100) includes at least one reflector surface and one or more feed horns (141, 142, . . . 145). The method includes the steps of determining a desired reflection point of the central ray from the feedhorn of the reflector surface, configuring a laser beam source to be mounted on the feed horn to enable a laser beam to travel substantially coincidently along the axis of transmission of the feed horn in a direction towards the reflector surface, and adjusting the azimuth and elevation of the feed horn to align the laser beam with the desired reflection point on the reflector surface. A laser aligning apparatus (200) for practising the above method and an antenna system aligned by means of the laser alignment apparatus (200) and/or method are also disclosed.

Abstract: A signal testing system and method for evaluating wireless communication signals transmitted between a base station and a communication site is provided. The signal testing system comprises an antenna located at the communication site for communicating the wireless communication signals between the base station and the communication site, an adjustable mount associated with the antenna for orienting the antenna in a plurality of pan orientations and a plurality of tilt orientations, an adjustable boom associated with the adjustable mount for positioning the antenna at a plurality of heights and a communication unit to measure characteristics of the wireless communication signals. The adjustable mount is fixed in a set pan orientation and a set tilt orientation and the adjustable boom is fixed height when the communication unit measures the characteristics of the wireless communication signals. The method uses the system.

Abstract: An antenna apparatus includes a bracket and a signal receiving box. The bracket has a base, a first connecting rod rotatably mounted on the base, and a second connecting rod pivotally mounted on the first connecting rod. The signal receiving box is rotatably mounted on the second connecting rod. Whereby, the signal receiving box can be adjusted at any angle for clearly and effectively receiving both the horizontal and the vertical signals.

Abstract: A dielectric resonator element array (DRA) antenna system that is small, compact, has high gain in the direction of intended communication, minimized interference in unintended directions of communication and a wide bandwidth. The antenna system comprises a ground plane, a feed structure, a beam shaping and steering controller, a mounting apparatus, an array of dielectric resonator elements and a radome that is close to or in contact with the array. The mounting apparatus preferably is configured so as not to appreciably increase the size of the system when mounted. The controller receives and processes information relating to one or more of object latitude, longitude, attitude, direction of travel, intended direction of communication and unintended directions of communication. The controller processes this information and determines excitation phase for the array elements.

Abstract: A phasing element and an antenna including at least one such phasing element. The former is intended for inserting a variable lag into the transmission of an electric signal by variation of the electric path travelled by the signal in this element. The phasing element includes an input transmission line and an output transmission line, the lines being printed lines placed at the surface of a printed circuit. It also includes a mobile radioelectric coupling member, input and output transmission lines, which includes a first arm and a second arm. The electric path shows a variation field between a first position where the first and second arm cover respectively and entirely the transmission lines thereby defining a minimal electric path, and a second position where the first and second arms are respectively placed in the alignment of the transmission lines thereby defining a maximal electric path.

Abstract: In some embodiments, the multiple antennas are cooperated in the system to provide simultaneous communication with multiple remote sites. Embodiments comprises a first variable inclined continuous transverse stub (VICTS) antenna that comprises a perimeter and an inactive region within the perimeter, a second VICTS antenna positioned at the inactive region of the first antenna, a first antenna control that steers the first antenna, and a second antenna control that steers the second antenna independent of the first antenna. In some embodiment, an antenna system is provided that comprises a first turntable having a perimeter, a first antenna having a perimeter, where the first antenna is secured on a first surface of the first turntable, a second antenna positioned proximate the first antenna and extending within the perimeter of the first turntable, where the second antenna is steerable independent of the first antenna.

Abstract: An antenna for radio wave communications. A first antenna section of planar array type is provided that operates at a first frequency and first polarization. A second antenna section of planar array type is provided that at a second frequency and second polarization. At least one of the first and second frequencies and first and second polarizations are substantially different. A table is provided that has a substantially planar surface and a central axis. The first and second antenna sections are mounted in parallel on planar surface and with respect to the central axis so that rotation of the table about its central axis mechanically scans the antenna with about the central axis. The first and said second antenna sections also are mounted with a separation so that the first antenna section does not substantially overshadow the second antenna section when the antenna is handling the radio wave communications.

Abstract: An antenna carrier includes a mast, a mast clamp installed at one end of the mast and rotatable with respect to the mast, and a fixture. The mast clamp has an extension arm. The fixture has a holder, a U-bolt, and a fine tune module with one end fixed to the extension arm. One end of the holder is moveably connected to the fine tune module. The U-bolt is moveably disposed in the holder for fixing the holder on one side of the mast.

Abstract: A satellite television system that provides live television programming to passengers by integrating direct broadcast satellite services into an in-flight aircraft entertainment system. The system has an antenna disposed on the aircraft that is pointed at a plurality of satellites that are part of a direct broadcast satellite system. The antenna is controlled by an antenna controller and antenna interface unit that send control signals and process status signals to steer the antenna. The antenna is steered to lock it onto RF signals transmitted by the satellites. The antenna interface unit downconverts the received encoded RF signals to provide encoded left hand circularly polarized RF signals and right hand circularly polarized RF signals that contain different sets of television channels. The downconverted encoded RF signals are processed by a receiver to provide encoded video and audio signals of different television channels. The receiver does not decode or D/A convert the downconverted signals.