Results in Engineering (Dec 2024)
A compact microstrip antenna with dual thin slits for high-capacity data streaming in the 38 and 39 GHz bands for 5G applications
Abstract
This article presents a simple rectangular microstrip antenna for 5G applications in the 38 and 39 GHz bands. The antenna prioritizes broad bandwidth and high gain for efficient signal transmission. It features a compact design, printed on a Rogers RT/Duroid 5880 substrate with dimensions of 5 × 8.2 × 0.186 mm³ (εr = 2.2 and tanδ = 0.0009) and includes two thin slits integrated with the radiating patch. This configuration achieved an impressive 3.11 GHz impedance bandwidth, covering a broad spectrum from 37.23 GHz to 40.34 GHz. Additionally, the radiation gain ranges from 6.55 dBi at the band's upper frequency to 9.03 dBi at the lower frequency, with a value of 9.03 dBi at the primary operational frequency of 38 GHz. The radiation efficiency remains nearly consistent across the operational frequencies, ranging from 86.97 % at the upper end to 88.96 % at the lower end, with an efficiency of 88.29 % at 38 GHz. Moreover, the antenna exhibits excellent matching to its feed, as demonstrated by the minimal value of 1.012 for Voltage Standing Waves Ratio (VSWR) and the low S11 parameter value of -60 dB at the 38 GHz frequency. The proposed antenna was designed and optimized using the Computer Simulation Technology (CST) simulator, while its performance was verified with the High-Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS). The results from both simulators align remarkably well. This antenna design demonstrated promising bandwidth and radiation characteristics, making it well-suited for 5G applications.
