Some critical parameters for the statistical characterization of power density within a microwave reverberation chamber

Abstract

Statistical models for a component of the power density inside a microwave reverberation chamber are studied. These models include average chamber gain characteristics, an ideal probability density function (PDF), and an ideal spatial correlation function (SCF). The SCF model is extracted from a more general theory of complex cavities. Emphasis is placed on observing the appUcability of these models as the conditions in the chamber are varied from non-ideal, multi-moded operation to ideal, "overmoded" operation in the high-frequency limit. The observations are made with measurements and simulations. Deviations from the models are characterized by and related to a number of critical chamber parameters such as the Q, the chamber electrical size, and the frequency range of chamber operation. The introduction of a chamber parameter M, the number of modes in a 3-dB bandwidth, provides useful information with regard to the behavior of the models in the low frequency limits of chamber operation. The introduction of SCF measurements to microwave reverberation chamber systems provides useful insights into the physical behavior of the fields inside the chamber.