Efficient computation of array factor and sidelobe level of linear arrays

Abstract

The implementation of code to efficiently compute the array factor and sidelobe level (SLL) of linear antenna arrays in MATLAB and GNU Octave is considered. The use of a fast Fourier transform (FFT) to compute the array factor is shown to be more efficient than other approaches. The automatic determination of the sidelobe region as a necessary step to computing the SLL is addressed. A number of codeoptimsation techniques in MATLAB and Octave are evaluated, including vectorisation, memory allocation and the use of built-in functions. Finally, an efficient function which can be used for the computation of the array factor and SLL of linear arrays in MATLAB and Octave is presented.