Signature Control
Parent Body: Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA), Funtington, Common Road, Funtington, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 9PD

Principal Functions
Measurement of antenna radiation patterns, radar cross-section and IR signature levels.

General Details
There are a number of separate facilities for determining antenna performance:

(1) The Model Antenna Range is used to design, develop and measure the performance of HF antennae. Using 1/50 scale models, rapid measurement of the antenna radiation pattern envelope at fifty times the frequency can be made. The range frequency covers the VHF and UHF bands and all the associated equipment such as oscillators, receivers and plotters are on hand.

(2) The five outdoor ranges operate over the frequency range 1–60Ghz, each comprises a 3-axis positioner, an analogue receiver and a polar–rectangular recorder with full remote control of transmitter frequency and polarisation.

(3) The anechoic chamber measures 17m × 8m × 6m and supports both antenna and radar cross–section measurements from 1-40GHz in either linear or circular polarisation. For the prediction of far field performance, the antenna is probed across a vertical 3m × 3m plane and the data is processed using fast Fourier transform techniques. The system is housed in an air conditioned building.

(4) Radar cross–section measurements are made from a fully mobile system operating in the frequency range 3-30GHz. It consists of tracking and measurement radars, a computerised control and data processing system and a closed circuit television camera aligned with the antennae.

(5) The infra-red measurement of platforms uses an Agema 880 MAGNUS System dual wave-band scanning radiometer operating in both the 3-5 and 8-13 micron waveband. The system can display images in black or white or false colour. It produces real time imagery for temperature measurement and analysis of both dynamic and static thermal patterns.

Special Features
All the facilities are supported by theoretical analysis and computer simulation, leading to an improved understanding of the complex mechanisms involved. There are competent staff on site to assist and advise as required.

Future Plans
The site will be UKAS accredited in Spring 2000 and will then offer an enhanced range of testing for new and future international regulatory requirements, mobile communications and broadcast media.

Availability
The facility is available for commercial hire to both public and private sector organisations. Ranges can be prepared with as little as 24 hours notice depending on loading, although access to the site for non UK nationals may require one months notice. There are no restrictions on the type of body that can apply to use the facility.

Charging Basis
Published charging rates are available. Enabling arrangements are offered to long term customers.

Site Access
The site has ready access for vehicles and local accommodation is available for the hirer’s staff.

Contact Information
Facility Manager
DERA Funtington
Common Road
Funtington
Chichester
West Sussex
PO18 9PD
Telephone:  023 9233 4844 Fax:  023 9233 4855