The TAU 5-400 is a high-precision, five-axis positioner engineered to support antenna and radome testing in controlled measurement environments such as anechoic chambers. Designed to accommodate payloads up to 400 pounds while maintaining accurate, repeatable positioning, the system enables comprehensive performance evaluations of antennas, radomes, and related RF components.

Versatile Five-Axis Control

• Floor Slide Axis: Provides linear motion with over 108 inches of travel, ensuring ample testing flexibility. Featuring absolute encoders with battery backup, it maintains position even after power loss. This axis achieves an accuracy of ±0.02 inches and offers speeds above 2 inches per second.
• Azimuth (Yaw) Axis: Capable of rotating from –185° to +185°, this axis delivers ±0.01° accuracy and resolution of 0.005°. With speeds from less than 0.05°/s to up to 10°/s at full load, it accommodates a wide range of test profiles.
• Elevation (Pitch) Axis: Offering ±90° travel, the elevation axis provides ±0.01° accuracy and 0.005° resolution for precise control. Speeds range from 0.1°/s to 1°/s under full load.
• Offset Linear Axis: With over 40 inches of travel and speeds above 1 inch per second, the offset linear axis expands setup and test configurations while maintaining ±0.02 inches of accuracy.
• Roll Axis: Supporting up to 400 pounds and 12,400 in-lbs of bending moment, the roll axis offers a –95° to +275° range with ±0.02° accuracy and 0.01° resolution, enabling comprehensive coverage of critical test orientations.

Precision & Maintenance Features
Each axis integrates absolute encoders with battery backup to safeguard position data. Removable motors and gearboxes facilitate straightforward maintenance and lubrication without disrupting test setups. Hardware-adjustable limit switches and permanent “Home” indicators on each axis provide both operator safety and reliable reference points. Additionally, nameplates on the positioner surfaces detail payload limits, bending moments, and other key operational specifications.

Integrated Testing Advantages
When installed in a measurement or anechoic chamber, the TAU 5-400 Positioner enables highly repeatable rotation, tilt, and linear positioning. This versatility supports extensive characterization of antenna radiation patterns and radome performance across all relevant orientations. By capturing critical performance data in near-real-world conditions, the TAU 5-400 helps optimize designs for communication systems, radar applications, and any RF-dependent technology that demands reliable, high-fidelity measurements.