Addis Ababa Institute of Technology

School of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Research methods and presentation(ECEG-5431)

Title: Summary of 5G beam-steering microstrip array antenna using

both-sided microwave integrated circuit technology

Name: Meseret Yalew

I.D. : UGR/5775/13
Stream: Communication

Submitted to: Gossaye M. (Dr)

Submission date: April 11, 2024
 Summary
The research focuses on the design, analysis, and performance evaluation of a microstrip array
antenna utilizing double-sided Microwave Integrated Circuit (MIC) technology for beam steering
applications in 5G networks. The array antenna is constructed using both-sided microwave
integrated circuit (MIC) technology, enabling efficient signal feeding to four square microstrip
patches arranged in a 2 × 2 configuration. The study investigates the feasibility of employing
microstrip array antennas with MIC technology to achieve efficient beam steering capabilities
within the sub-6 GHz frequency range, essential for addressing the escalating demands of mobile
traffic and the transition to 5G networks. The research clearly explains the significance of beam
steering antennas in modern communication systems, particularly in the context of 5G mobile
connectivity. It explain the limitations of traditional beam steering methods and highlights the
potential of microstrip arrays integrated with double-sided MIC technology to address these
challenges by offering enhanced performance, reduced complexity, and improved design
flexibility.

The design methodology provides a detailed summary of the proposed antenna architecture;
indicate the construction of the antenna, feed network configuration, and operational principles.
The array antenna comprises four square microstrip patches arranged in a 2 × 2 configuration,
resonating at 3.5 GHz. The feed network utilizes hybrid junctions formed by microstrip lines and
a T-type slot line to enable beam steering functionality. Quarter-wavelength transformers are
employed to optimize impedance matching, ensuring efficient signal propagation within the
antenna structure. Operating at a frequency of 3.5 GHz, the antenna achieves beam steering
capabilities ranging from -17° to +17° while maintaining side lobe gain below 10 dB.

Simulated result analysis evaluates the performance of the proposed antenna design in terms of
impedance matching, radiation pattern, directivity, and gain. Impedance matching analysis
demonstrates excellent return loss and narrow bandwidth, indicating effective impedance
matching at the resonance frequency, with a return loss of -43 dB at the central frequency.
Additionally, the antenna exhibits high gain of approximately 12.57 dB and directivity of 25.11
dB, with a maximum gain of 24.1 dB at ±17° angles. Radiation pattern simulations illustrate the
antenna's beam steering capability, showcasing the ability to steer the main beam within a range
of -17° to +17° by adjusting the phase difference between input signals. Directivity and gain
analysis further confirm the antenna's high gain, directivity, and beam steering capabilities,
making it suitable for 5G communication applications.

The proposed antenna addresses several limitations of traditional beam-steering technologies. By

integrating MIC technology, the design minimizes circuit complexity and reduces antenna size
while enhancing functionality and design flexibility. Compared to previous studies, the presented
antenna achieves significant steering angles without the need for diodes or complex external feed
circuits. This signifies a notable advancement in beam-steering antenna design, it is superior
performance in terms of beam steering angle, gain, and impedance matching that offering
improved performance and practicality. Moreover, the compatibility of the antenna with the sub-
6 GHz frequency band is crucial for addressing the increasing mobile traffic and demand for
higher data rates in the era of 5G networks. The research contributes to the ongoing evolution of
communication systems by providing a practical solution for adapting to the demands of modern
wireless communication.

Despite some previous studies achieving greater steering angles, the proposed antenna
outperforms in other crucial parameters, emphasizing its effectiveness and suitability for
practical implementation in 5G networks. Overall, the research provides valuable insights into
the design and performance evaluation of microstrip array antennas with beam steering
capabilities using double-sided MIC technology. By addressing the limitations of traditional
beam steering methods and uses advanced microwave integration techniques, the proposed
antenna offers a promising solution for enhancing communication systems' efficiency and
capacity in the era of 5G connectivity. In conclusion, the Beam-steering microstrip array
antennas have a significant contribution to the advancement of communication technologies,
particularly in the context of 5G networks. The integration of both-sided MIC technology into
the antenna design shows amazing improvements in performance, efficiency, and practicality.