Looking for a way to add directional control to your vertical antenna setup without the complexity of a full beam antenna? The Performance Z Arrays Two Element Phased Array Controller promises to deliver exactly that, turning two simple vertical elements into a steerable antenna system. After spending four hours testing this system in real-world conditions with fellow ham Matthew W1MRC, I can tell you it delivers on its promises, though with some important considerations you need to know before making the investment.
What Makes Phased Arrays Special for Ham Radio
Phased array antennas offer a unique solution for amateur radio operators who want directional control without the space requirements of traditional beam antennas. By controlling the phase relationship between two or more vertical elements, you can electronically steer the radiation pattern, creating gain in desired directions while suppressing signals from unwanted directions.
The Performance Z Arrays controller takes the complexity out of phased array operation by providing precise phase control and switching capabilities in a single, compact unit. This eliminates the need for complex calculations, custom-built phasing networks, and manual adjustments that have traditionally made phased arrays a project for experienced antenna builders only.
Key Benefits of Phased Array Systems
- Directional Control: Steer your signal without physically rotating antennas
- Space Efficiency: Requires less real estate than traditional beam antennas
- Instant Switching: Change directions at the flip of a switch
- Reduced Noise: Null out interference from specific directions
- Enhanced DX Performance: Focus your signal for better long-distance contacts
Setup and Installation Experience
Setting up the Performance Z Arrays system proved to be straightforward, even for operators without extensive antenna modeling experience. Our test setup used two vertical elements cut for 20 meters, spaced appropriately for optimal performance on that band.
Step-by-Step Setup Process
- Element Preparation: Cut and tune each element individually for your target frequency
- Individual Tuning: Achieve 1.2:1 SWR on each element, tune one at a time
- Network Connections: Connect the 71° delay line followed by the 84° feed lines
- Controller Integration: Connect the controller cable and coax feed to your transceiver
- System Testing: Verify switching operation and directional performance
The most impressive aspect of the setup was how quickly we were able to setup the array. This makes it ideal for POTA and SOTA operations.
"It wasn't too difficult to set up either. I'm definitely glad to have this in my arsenal of antennas and can't wait to grab some DX with it."
Real-World Performance Testing Results
Our testing methodology involved multiple approaches to verify the system's directional capabilities. We used FT8 digital mode for precise signal strength measurements, SSB voice contacts for subjective audio quality comparisons, and remote WebSDR monitoring to observe our transmitted signal from a distant location.
Performance Test Results Summary
- FT8 Digital Mode: Consistent 4-6 dB signal strength differences between array directions
- SSB Voice Contacts: Noticeable audio quality improvements in preferred directions
- Remote Monitoring: 1 S-unit signal difference observed on WebSDR over 500 miles away
- Direction Accuracy: Array performed as expected with VA3 stations stronger on northeast-facing element
- Switching Speed: Instant direction changes with no delay or artifacts
The FT8 testing provided the most objective data, showing consistent signal strength variations as we switched between array elements. When monitoring a Canadian station northeast of our location, we observed the expected stronger signal when the array was configured to favor the northeast direction.
During SSB contacts, operators consistently reported signal strength improvements when we switched to the optimal array configuration. One Florida station noted our signal was "just slightly better" when we optimized the array direction, which translates to meaningful improvement in real-world operating conditions.
Technical Performance Analysis
The Performance Z Arrays system delivered the expected 3 dB gain improvement in the favored direction, a significant enhancement that translates to half an S-unit improvement in both transmitted and received signal strength. While this might seem modest, experienced operators know that 3 dB can mean the difference between making a contact and missing it entirely.
| Test Condition |
Element 1 (West) |
Element 2 (East) |
Difference |
| VA3 (Northeast) |
-6 to -9 RSI |
-3 to -1 RSI |
3-4 dB improvement |
| K2 (Southeast) |
S8 |
S9 |
+1 S Unit improvement |
| WebSDR Remote |
S2 |
S3 |
+1 S Unit improvement |
The controller's switching mechanism worked flawlessly throughout our testing period. Direction changes were instantaneous with no audible artifacts or signal interruptions. The system maintained consistent performance across different operating modes, from weak-signal FT8 to full-power SSB voice communications.
Advantages and Limitations
What We Loved
- Easy Setup: Straightforward installation with clear documentation
- Consistent Performance: Reliable 3 dB gain in favored directions
- Instant Switching: No delays or artifacts when changing directions
- Quality Construction: Well-built components with professional finish
- Space Efficient: Requires much less space than traditional beam antennas
- Multi-Mode Operation: Works equally well with digital and voice modes
Areas for Improvement
- Limited Direction: Only Bi-Directional, a three element would be nice
- Band-Specific Setup: Cables must be cut and tuned for specific frequencies
- Space: Still needs adequate space but easier than a Yagi
Who Should Consider This System
The Performance Z Arrays Two Element Phased Array Controller excels in specific use cases and operating environments. It's particularly well-suited for operators who like to work mobile like POTA and SOTA. Would be a killer Field Day setup!
Contest operators will appreciate the ability to instantly switch directions without the mechanical complexity of rotating beam antennas. The system shines during band openings when propagation conditions favor specific geographic regions, you can optimize your signal direction with a simple switch operation.
DX enthusiasts working from locations with HOA restrictions or limited antenna space will find this system offers a practical compromise between omnidirectional verticals and space-consuming beam antennas. The visual profile is much lower than traditional arrays while still providing meaningful directional control.
Ideal Use Cases
- Space-constrained installations where beam antennas aren't practical
- Contest stations needing rapid directional switching capabilities
- DX operations requiring signal optimization for specific regions
- Emergency communications where directional control enhances coverage
Comparison with Alternative Solutions
When comparing the Performance Z Arrays system to other directional antenna solutions, several factors come into play. Traditional beam antennas offer higher gain (typically 6-10 dB) but require significant real estate and mechanical rotation systems. Stepper motor-controlled arrays provide more precise directional control but add complexity and potential failure points.
The Performance Z Arrays controller occupies a sweet spot in the market, offering meaningful directional control with reasonable complexity and space requirements. While it doesn't match the raw gain of large beam antennas, it provides directional capabilities that omnidirectional verticals simply cannot achieve.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
After extensive real-world testing, the Performance Z Arrays Two Element Phased Array Controller earns our highest recommendation and a perfect 5-star rating. This system delivers exceptional value for operators seeking directional control without the complexity of traditional beam antennas. The system not only delivers its promised performance improvements but exceeds expectations with its simplicity in both setup and operation.
The 3 dB gain improvement represents a significant and highly noticeable enhancement over omnidirectional verticals. More importantly, the system provides this improvement with flawless instant switching capabilities and remarkably minimal space requirements.
The exceptional quality of construction and remarkably easy setup make this system accessible to operators of all experience levels. Performance Z Arrays has successfully packaged complex antenna theory into an outstanding, user-friendly product that performs flawlessly and exceeds all expectations.
Ready to Add Directional Control to Your Station?
The Performance Z Arrays Two Element Phased Array Controller offers a practical solution for operators wanting directional capabilities without the space and complexity of traditional beam antennas. Whether you're chasing DX, participating in contests, or simply want to optimize your signal for specific coverage areas, this system delivers reliable performance in a compact package.
Consider your specific operating requirements, available space, and budget when evaluating this system. For many operators, it represents the ideal balance between performance enhancement and practical implementation.
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