This paper presents the application of optimization methods for the synthesis of a linear array for communication systems. By means of suitably beam switching, the array should provide coverage of a given angular area in azimuth and should allow controlling the sidelobe level simultaneously. For this purpose, two optimization methods have been used to calculate the excitation coefficient for each desired beam. The synthesis technique is demonstrated for arrays composed of isotropic and microstrip elements. By comparing the results obtained for both arrays, the need of consideration of the array element pattern during the synthesis process is demonstrated.