Abstract. Direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation algorithms deliver very precise results based on good and extensive antenna array calibration. The better the array manifold including all disturbances is known, the better the DOA estimation result. A simplification or ideally an omission of the calibration procedure has been a long pursued goal in the history of array signal processing. This paper investigates the practicability of some well known calibration algorithms and gives a deeper insight into existing obstacles. Further analysis on the validity of the common used data model is presented. A new effect in modeling errors is revealed and simulation results substantiate this theory.