Scanned microstrip arrays using simple integrated ferrite phase shifters

A phase-steered microstrip antenna array is presented, suitable for application as a mobile vehicle satellite terminal. Phase shifters are implemented on a hybrid dielectric-ferrite substrate, and use is made of the phase transition near the cut-off region of the biased ferrite. Small permanent magnets and carefully biased ferrites remove the need for large applied electromagnetic fields. 2-, 3- and 4-element demonstrator arrays have been constructed, and up to 30° beam squint has been achieved for applied magnetic biases of about 100 Oe.