Connected array sensitivity matching with single-ended loading and differential beamforming

Abstract

We analyse the sensitivity of a dual-polarized planar connected array with single-ended low noise amplifier (LNA) loading and differential beamforming of the outputs of LNA pairs. Sensitivity is found to depend on the LNA minimum noise figure source admittance and input admittance, with the dependence on the input admittance being relatively weak. Good performance is obtained if these admittances are approximately a conjugate pair, maximizing sensitivity and efficiency respectively when the outputs of all LNAs are beamformed.