Abstract:
A dual-port single layer pattern diversified microstrip patch antenna for sub-6 GHz 5G
communication applications is proposed. The pattern diversity exhibited by the proposed
antenna offers enhanced spatial coverage. The design consists of a notch loaded annular ring
with a separately excited slot-loaded circular patch within its aperture. Complex feeding
networks and multilayered structures are avoided in order to produce a planar, low-profile,
low-cost, easy to fabricate design. The broadside radiation is achieved by using the dominant
TM11 mode of the circular patch. The annular ring is excited in the TM31 mode in order to
obtain conical radiation. The two modes of radiating elements operate at a frequency of 3.5
GHz which lies in the sub-6 GHz 5G frequency band. The current density plots as well as the
equivalent circuit model of the antenna elements are presented in order to fully explain the
design process and working of the antenna. The proposed antenna is fabricated, and its
parameters measured. The measurements are in good agreement with the simulated data.
The gain of the broadside beam is 7.2dBi while the gain for the conical one is 4.6dBi. The
isolation between the two ports remains below -28dB.
