Laue, Heinrich Edgar ArnoldDu Plessis, Warren Paul2020-02-252020-02-252019-11H.E.A. Laue and W.P. du Plessis, "A Checkered Network for Implementing Arbitrary Overlapped Feed Networks," in IEEE Transactions on Microwave Theory and Techniques, vol. 67, no. 11, pp. 4632-4640, Nov. 2019.0018-9480 (print)1557-9670 (online)10.1109/TMTT.2019.2940223http://hdl.handle.net/2263/73541Existing overlapped subarray techniques for beamforming arrays aim to realize flat-topped subarray radiation patterns, where pattern synthesis is constrained by the hardware configuration. A generalized framework for designing compressive arrays with unconstrained feed network responses has recently been proposed with promising results, but no hardware implementation has been proposed. A planar checkered network of directional couplers and fixed phase shifters is proposed for implementing arbitrary complex-valued feed network responses, including completely overlapped networks. An algorithm is proposed for realizing a desired response while minimizing the range of coupling ratios and phase shifts required. The technique is validated by a comparison to the standard 4 x 4 Butler matrix implementation, and its versatility illustrated by sharing an eight-element aperture between three independently designed nonscanning arrays. A manufactured microstrip 2 x 4 compressive array feed network achieves the desired aperture illuminations to within 0.6 dB and 5.2° at 3.15 GHz, and to within 1.4 dB and 10.3° across the impedance bandwidth of 4.5%.en© 2019 IEEE. Personal use is permitted, but republication/redistribution requires IEEE permission.SubarraysPhased arraysButler matricesBeam steeringAntenna feed networksAntenna radiation patternsArray signal processingMatrix algebraMicrostrip antenna arraysPlanar antenna arraysLayoutCouplersCouplingsPhase shiftersPostprint Article