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In telecommunication, a phased array is a
group of antennas in which the relative phases of the
respective signals feeding the antennas are varied in such a way that the effective
radiation pattern of the array is reinforced in a desired direction and suppressed in undesired directions. This design is used in radar, and is generalized in interferometric radio antennas (usually in radio
telescopes).
The relative amplitudes of--and constructive and destructive interference effects among--the signals radiated by the individual antennas
determine the effective radiation pattern of the array. A phased array may be used to point a fixed radiation pattern, or to
scan rapidly in azimuth or elevation.
Source: from Federal Standard 1037C and from
MIL-STD-188
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