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2025-02-27
High Performance 5G FR-2 Millimeter-Wave Antenna Array for Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint Operation: Design and OTA Measurements Using a Compact Antenna Test Range
By
Progress In Electromagnetics Research M, Vol. 132, 73-84, 2025
Abstract
This paper presents the design and comprehensive measurements of a high-performance 8-element linear and a compact high-gain 32-element planar antenna array covering the n257 (26.5-29.5 GHz) FR-2 millimeter-wave (mmWave) band. First, an 8-element series-fed linear array is designed offering a fan-shaped pattern for 5G point-to-multipoint connectivity. Then a 4-way corporate-series feed network is designed for a high-gain 32-element compact and directive array for point-to-point mmWave connectivity. Comprehensive over-the-air (OTA) measurements are conducted using a state-of-the-art compact antenna test range (CATR) system, enabling precise characterization of radiation patterns across a 180° span in the azimuth and elevation planes. The planar array achieves a peak measured gain of 18.45 dBi at 28.5 GHz, with half-power beamwidths ranging from 11°-13° (elevation) and 23°-27° (azimuth) across the band of interest. The measured results match closely with the simulation results. The measurement results match well with the simulations. The designed antenna array is versatile, applicable to various emerging 5G and beyond mmWave applications such as outdoor fixed wireless access, mmWave near-field focusing, high-resolution indoor radar systems, 28 GHz Local Multipoint Distribution Service (LMDS) as well as the characterization of mmWave path loss and channel sounding in diverse indoor environments.
Citation
Abdul Jabbar, Jalil Ur Rehman Kazim, Mahmoud A. Shawky, Muhammad Ali Imran, Qammer Hussain Abbasi, Muhammad Usman, and Masood Ur-Rehman, "High Performance 5G FR-2 Millimeter-Wave Antenna Array for Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint Operation: Design and OTA Measurements Using a Compact Antenna Test Range," Progress In Electromagnetics Research M, Vol. 132, 73-84, 2025.
doi:10.2528/PIERM25010206
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