Dual-Band Vector Sensor for Direction of Arrival Estimation of Incoming Electromagnetic Waves

Abstract : In this paper, a dual-band vector sensor using antennas spatially distributed and diversely polarized for estimating the direction of arrival (DoA) of electromagnetic fields in two frequency bands is reported for the first time. To cover the two bands the sensor is composed of six small dual-band radiating elements: three half-loops and three monopoles. The accuracy of the DoA estimation is computed from the well-known multiple signal classification algorithm. A dual-band vector sensor prototype is designed and manufactured for operating in two global system for mobile communications frequency bands. Measurement results are reported for experimental validation purpose. The extension of the proposed methodology to the design of multiband vector sensors is finally discussed.