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Abstract

A phased array antenna includes phase shifting elements, drivers, and antenna elements. The phase shifting elements are operatively coupled to first signals and second signals, and include at least one plasma electrode. The drivers selectively energize the plasma electrode and the phase shifting elements provide a phase shift between the first and second signals in response to the plasma electrode being energized. The antenna elements are operatively coupled to the phase shifting elements. A method of phase shifting an array antenna includes the steps of providing phase shifting elements operatively coupled to first signals and second signals, and incorporating at least one plasma electrode in the phase shifting elements. The method also includes the steps of selectively energizing the plasma electrode, shifting the phase between the first signals and second signals in response to the plasma electrode being energized, and operatively coupling antenna elements to the second signals.

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First Claim