CSAT-Lab (Communication Systems and Antennas Test Laboratory)
The CSAT Lab is a state-of-the-art research, manufacturing, and measurement facility dedicated to the design, fabrication, and characterisation of advanced antenna technologies. Our expertise encompasses phased arrays, frequency-selective surfaces, additive manufacturing of antennas, and dielectric lens technologies. The lab is committed to innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, facilitating the development of cutting-edge solutions for modern communication systems.
Facilities and Equipment
- Vector Network Analyzer: Keysight P5008A, enabling high-precision RF measurements up to 53 GHz.
- ECal System: Keysight N4692D, ensuring accurate and repeatable VNA calibrations.
- Additive Manufacturing Station: Formlabs 3L, supporting high-resolution 3D printing for antenna prototyping.
- Resin Materials: A collection of over eight specialised resins optimised for antenna manufacturing.
- Anechoic Chamber: A planar near-field and spherical far-field chamber (currently in the acquisition process) for accurate antenna characterisation.
- Horn Antenna Set: A comprehensive set of reference antennas for testing and calibration (under acquisition).
- Electroplating Station: A dedicated metallisation system for enhancing the conductivity of printed antennas.
- Lego Antenna Kit: A modular prototyping system for rapid antenna design iterations.
- Material Characterisation: Waveguide-based material characterisation across multiple frequency bands, including mmWave applications.
Services offered
The CSAT Lab actively supports collaborative research projects through the SnT Partnership Programme. Our services are tailored to industry and academic partners, providing expertise in:
- Antenna Measurement Services: Precise S-parameter characterisation up to 53 GHz.
- Antenna Prototyping and Metallisation: Advanced additive manufacturing combined with electroplating for functional antenna development.
- RF Component Assembly: Precision soldering of RF and microwave components.
- Dielectric Material Characterisation: High-accuracy permittivity and loss tangent measurements at mmWave frequencies.
- Antenna Radiation Pattern Measurements: (Upcoming) Far-field and near-field antenna pattern analysis with advanced measurement setups.
Learn more about our Partnership Programme.
Our mission is to bridge the gap between research and industry, fostering innovation in antenna design and RF technologies. Through our advanced capabilities, we support the development of next-generation communication systems, delivering high-performance, cost-effective, and scalable solutions.