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TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM:
A BRIEF TUTORIAL
ON
MICROSTRIP ANTENNAS
16 NOVEMBER 2018
PREPARED BY:
3 LITCHFIELD DRIVE
HAMPTON NH 03842-1564 USA
PREPARED FOR:
COMPANY NAME
STREET ADDRESS
CITY, STATE ZIP CODE USA
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT OR ITEM IS THE PROPERTY OF E X H CONSULTING SERVICES,
AND SHALL BE KEPT IN STRICT CONFIDENCE . EXCEPT WITH THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF E X H CONSULTING
SERVICES, SUCH INFORMATION OR ITEM SHALL NOT BE PUBLISHED, OR DISCLOSED TO OTHERS, OR USED FOR
MANUFACTURE OR SALE OR FOR ANY OTHER PURPOSE. RECIPIENT AGREES BY ACCEPTANCE OF THIS DOCUMENT.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 1 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Paragraph Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION 3
9.0 REFERENCES 25
– PROPRIETARY – Page 2 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
Abstract – The rectangular microstrip (patch) antenna is explored from theoretical and practical
perspectives. Analysis and design techniques are presented using the transmission line model –
uniquely applicable to the rectangular configuration – as well as the more accurate cavity
model. Design equations are utilized from several reference sources and results validated using
electromagnetic simulation and prototype measurement. Descriptive terms applicable to
antenna characterization are defined and a brief introduction to microstrip antenna arrays is
presented.
1.0 INTRODUCTION
A significant performance element in communication and radar systems – as well as wireless devices – is the
antenna, which may be defined as a transducer between a guided electromagnetic wave propagating along a
transmission line, and an electromagnetic wave propagating in an unbounded medium (usually free space) or vice-
versa.1 The antenna is required to transmit or receive electromagnetic energy with directional and polarization
properties suitable for the intended application.
This tutorial explores the radiation properties of rectangular microstrip antennas; specifically, the radiation
method, coupling of the feed structure to the microstrip radiating element – or elements in the case of array
structures – and the simple transmission line model utilized for design and performance estimates. Within Parts 1
and 2, the attributes of single element, rectangular microstrip antennas are explored. Part 3 examines the
properties of antenna arrays constructed from the ensemble of individual rectangular microstrip elements.
PARAMETER DEFINITION
The angular separation between two identical points on opposite sides of the
Radiation Pattern Beamwidth
radiation pattern maximum – generally, the value definition is the half-power point.
Sidelobe Level The portion of the radiation pattern bounded by relatively weak radiation intensity
The ratio of the radiation intensity in a given direction to the radiation intensity
Directivity – D averaged over all directions – maximum radiation is the implied direction; a measure
of the ability of the antenna to focus radiated power in a given direction
1
Ulaby, F. T., Fundamentals of Applied Electromagnetics, 2004 Ed., Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ, 2004.
2
Balanis, C. A., Antenna Theory, 3rd Ed., John Wiley and Sons, Hoboken, NJ, 2005, chapter 2.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 3 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
PARAMETER DEFINITION
The ratio of the radiation intensity in a given direction to the radiation intensity of an
Gain – G isotropic antenna with the same input power – unlike directivity, gain also accounts
for antenna efficiency
Efficiency –
A numerical term which accounts for losses of the antenna from the input terminals
and all elements of the antenna structure
The ratio of the available power at the terminals of an antenna to the power flux
Effective Area – Ae
density from a plane wave incident normal to the antenna.
The ratio of the effective area, Ae, of an antenna to the physical area, Aph, of the
antenna – mathematically:
Aperture Efficiency
4 4
G= Ae and G = Aph
2 2
Indicates the time varying direction of the electric field vector – vertical, horizontal
Polarization
and circular polarization are typical
Input Impedance The ratio of voltage to current at the input terminals of the antenna
In addition to the antenna definitions, understanding descriptive antenna parameters requires a graphical and
geometric reference; that reference is provided by the spherical coordinate system as defined within Figure 1.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 4 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
Low cost fabrication – printed circuit manufacturing Narrow bandwidth – bandwidth increase generally
methods requires increasing volume
Surface conformable – facilitated by flexible substrate Sensitive to temperature and humidity – low loss
materials substrates utilize PTFE in composite
Polarization diversity – readily achieved using alternate Poor cross polarization – limited element and feed
feed methods isolation
Flexible gain and pattern options – readily achieved Spurious radiation – surface and other propagation
using alternate feed methods and array techniques modes
In a properly designed microstrip antenna, the radiation intensity is in a direction normal to the radiating element,
i.e. broadside. For the rectangular microstrip antenna, the length, L, is typically one-third to one-half wavelength
long depending upon the substrate relative dielectric constant, which is commonly 2.0 to 10.0; the lower values of
dielectric constant yielding higher efficiency.
3
Bancroft, R., Microstrip and Printed Antenna Design, 2nd Ed., Scitech Publishing, Raleigh, NC, 2009, pp. 5-6.
4
Bahl, I. J. and Bhartia, P., Microstrip Antennas, Artech House, Dedham, MA, 1980, pp. 2-4.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 5 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
The substrate height, h, is also a critical parameter with respect to efficiency and bandwidth, as well as reducing
undesired propagation modes at the conductor edges and within the substrate.
There are several techniques available for the introduction of RF energy to the radiating microstrip via the feed line
structure. In some cases, alterations in the feed line structure have the potential for attendant changes to the
efficiency, gain and bandwidth of the microstrip antenna. The most common feed structure for the rectangular
microstrip antenna is direct attachment at the radiating edge as illustrated.
The rectangular microstrip antenna geometry is most popular, however, alternate shapes, e.g. circular and
triangular, provide utility in certain applications. Thin strips for the implementation of half-wavelength dipoles are
attractive for increasing the operational bandwidth. To maintain brevity, the emphasis within this tutorial is
restricted to microstrip antennas of rectangular geometry.
As mentioned earlier, the electrical length of the microstrip conductor at resonance is /2. Therefore, accounting
for the fringing, the resonant frequency, fo, or corrected operating frequency, frc, may now be written:
5
Balanis, C. A., Antenna Theory, 3rd Ed., John Wiley and Sons, Hoboken, NJ, 2005, p. 818.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 6 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
c c c
fo = = = f rc = Eq. 4
2 2 Leff eff 2(L − 2L) eff
1 (k h )2
G= 1 − o
120 2 24
2L eff
B=
o Z o
Yin = G + jB + Yo
( (
G + j B + Yo tan ko eff L ))
Figure 6 – Microstrip Antenna Equivalent Circuit (
Yo + j (G + jB )tan ko eff L)
While the equations for the slot admittance are convenient, improved accuracy is achieved through the use of the
equivalent admittance of the radiating slots available from the cavity model.
Cavity Model
Meticulous examination of the microstrip antenna construction discloses that the air dielectric at the sides and
conductors at the top and bottom boundaries may define a resonant structure, also referred to as a resonant
cavity. Cavity resonators are typically low loss structures; therefore, a mechanism must be defined to simulate the
6
Bahl, I. J. and Bhartia, P., Microstrip Antennas, Artech House, Dedham, MA, 1980, p. 51.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 7 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
radiation loss at each edge of the microstrip conductor. Once again, the radiating slot finds application. However,
in the case of the cavity model, the radiation admittance is evaluated from an electromagnetic field perspective of
significant mathematical rigor which is not appropriate for this tutorial venue. Notwithstanding, the results of the
cavity model are applicable and provide improved accuracy for the calculation of driving point impedance and
resonant frequency.7 Utilization of the cavity model yields the following equations for the calculation of the
resonant input resistance of the rectangular microstrip resonator:8 Note that the ± sign refers to the specific mode
field configuration of the cavity resonance beneath the conductor [3].
1
Rin =
2(G1 G12 )
2 Eq. 5
k oW
sin cos
I1 2 sin 3 ( )d
G1 =
120 2
where I 1 =
0 cos
2
k oW
sin cos
2 J (k L sin ) sin 3 d
1
G12 =
120 2 0 cos 0 o
The inset feed technique utilizes the reduction in electric field strength to effectively ‘tap’ a lower impedance drive
point, while the quarter-wave transformer uses the transmission line formula which provides the geometric mean
of the input resistance and the characteristic impedance of the quarter-wave transmission line. Coaxial probes
beneath the conductor or a vertically offset feed along the width are also used on occasion.
A useful equation to achieve the optimum inset length, yo, is available:9
7
The diligent readers are encouraged to indulge their curiosity in one or more of the cited references.
8
Although the expressions appear quite complex, they are rendered tractable using computational programs such as MathCad®
and Matlab®. The data analysis feature of Excel may also be employed to provide a reasonable estimate.
9
Balanis, C. A., Antenna Theory, 3rd Ed., John Wiley and Sons, Hoboken, NJ, 2005, pp. 824-825.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 8 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
Rin ( y = yo ) = cos2 yo = Rin ( yo = 0) cos2 yo
1
Eq. 6
2(G1 + G12 ) L L
Although quite convenient and easily implemented, the inset feed distorts the equivalent slot radiation due to the
change in geometry. The quarter-wavelength feed minimizes the equivalent slot field distortion due to the
narrower, high impedance line required for impedance matching. The simple formula for the impedance of the
quarter-wavelength transmission line may be written:
Z o2
Z in = Eq. 7
Rin
For a typical value of Rin = 200 and Zin = 50 :
For the E-plane radiation pattern: = 0 and -/2 < < /2 (planes have been redefined to comply with reference)
k oW
k h sin 2 sin( ) sin( ) k L 2
PE ( , = 0) = cos o cos( ) cos o sin( ) cos( ) cos( ) , k 0 = Eq. 9
2 0
sin( ) sin( )
k W
r o
2
For the H-plane radiation pattern: = /2 and -/2 < < /2 (planes have been redefined to comply with reference)
k W
sin o sin( ) sin( )
k L 2
PH , = = cos o cos( ) cos o sin( ) cos( ) cos( ) sin( ) , k 0 =
k h 2
Eq. 10
2 0
sin( ) sin( )
k W 2
r o
2
Bancroft11 provides reduced complexity expressions for the E-plane and H-plane radiation patterns; however,
accuracy is modestly compromised due to elimination of the height, h, as a dependent variable.
Microstrip Antenna Directivity
The two-slot radiation model is also utilized to predict the directivity of the rectangular microstrip antenna. Figure
5 represents graphic definition in conjunction with the microstrip antenna dimensions as previously defined.
Although the equation for directivity of a single slot requires the condition koh << 1, the expression provides
reasonable accuracy upon comparison with actual measurement if the condition is moderately violated.
The directivity of a single slot may be written:12
10
Carver, K. and Mink, J., Microstrip Antenna Technology, IEEE Transactions, Antennas and Propagation, January, 1981.
11
Bancroft, R., Microstrip and Printed Antenna Design, 2nd Ed., Scitech Publishing, Raleigh, NC, 2009, p. 30.
12
Balanis, C. A., Antenna Theory, 3rd Ed., John Wiley and Sons, Hoboken, NJ, 2005, p. 840.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 9 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
2
k oW
sin cos
2
2W 1 2 sin3 ( )d Eq. 11
D1 =
o
I1
where I1 =
0 cos
The directivity of a two-slot array, i.e. the microstrip antenna, may be written using the following expression:13
2
2W
D2 =
o I2
k oW
2 Eq. 12
sin cos( )
2 sin3 ( ) cos 2 cos k o Leff sin( ) sin( ) dd
where I 2 =
0 0
cos( )
2
c 2
W= Eq. 13
2 fo r + 1
The procedure for the design of a single element, rectangular microstrip antenna is summarized in Table III.
TABLE III: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA DESIGN PROCEDURE
PROCEDURE
DESIGN PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION NOTE – COMMENT – REFERENCE
NUMBER
13
Balanis, C. A., Antenna Theory, 3rd Ed., John Wiley and Sons, Hoboken, NJ, 2005, p. 841.
14
Bancroft, R., Microstrip and Printed Antenna Design, 2nd Ed., Scitech Publishing, Raleigh, NC, 2009, p. 60.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 10 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
PROCEDURE
DESIGN PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION NOTE – COMMENT – REFERENCE
NUMBER
6. Calculate the input impedance at resonance – Rin Equation 5 – note + sign for TM010 mode
Use either inset feed or quarter-wavelength Equation 6 or Equation 7. A coaxial probe beneath the
7. transmission line for impedance matching to the desired substrate with center conductor extending to the inset
input impedance feed point may also be appropriate on occasion.
To further explore the rectangular microstrip antenna, a design example is documented in Table IV using the
procedure of Table III. The example illustrates the design procedure for a 5.8 GHz, direct coupled microstrip
antenna on 0.062 inch thick Rexolite® substrate. Rexolite® is a dimensionally stable, cross-linked polystyrene
plastic with a frequency independent dielectric constant of 2.55 and low loss tangent; typically less than 0.001 to
100 GHz.16
TABLE IV: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA DESIGN EXAMPLE 17
15
An excellent design example of a 10 GHz microstrip antenna is presented in [3], Chapter 14.
16
Additional information and characteristics of Rexolite® may be found at www.rexolite.com.
17
See Appendix B for detailed Mathcad work sheet calculations
– PROPRIETARY – Page 11 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
Conductor width W 19.41 mm (0.764 in) Equation 13 (optimized value 0.750 in)
Conductor length L 15.38 mm (0.605 in) Equation 4 (optimized value 0.615 in)
Microstrip calculator18
Quarter-Wave transformer L/4 8.48 mm (0.334 in)
(optimized value 0.265 in)
Microstrip calculator
Quarter-Wave transformer, width W/4 1.05 mm (0.040 in)
(optimized value 0.035 in)
−15
slot separation length, L; this is not evident from
equation 10 until one cautiously considers the
−20
equation under the condition, = /2.
180 0
18
On-Line microstrip parameter calculator: http://www.microwaves101.com/content/calculators.cfm
– PROPRIETARY – Page 12 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
1.0
Mag Max Swp Max
0
10
0.8
-10
20
10 dB 5.9GHz
-20
6
30
0.
-3
0
2.
0
40
Mag 6.859
-4
0
4
50 0.
-5
0
Ang 0 3.
0
60 0
-6 4.
0
5.0
70 0.2
-70
80 10.0
-80
10.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
p2
p1 90
0
-90
100
S(1,1)
.0
-2
15
.6
50
DCPA_B
0
-0
-1
160
0
-16
-0.8
-170
170
Azimuth (E-Plane) and Elevation (H-Plane) Radiation Patterns Direct-Coupled Microstrip Antenna Input Impedance
In addition to providing the ability to optimize antenna performance, the AXIEM simulation software also enables
dimensional sensitivity analysis; e.g., as one might expect, the length of the microstrip conductor (L) was found to
significantly influence input impedance and center frequency; while the microstrip conductor width (W) was found
19AXIEM technology utilizes an open-boundary, non-gridded, method-of-moments solver that supports thick metal in layered
dielectric media. Additional information is available at www.awrcorp.com/products/axiem.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 13 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
to have influence on the directivity and was useful in optimizing the input impedance. The substrate thickness (h)
was found to be the principal determinant to bandwidth and efficiency.
The value of EM antenna simulation is manifest in the ability to optimize performance as well as to provide
physical insight to antenna operation using conductor current and electric field annotation capabilities. Note
specifically the current density at the conductor edges. One might correctly consider that the radiation properties
of the microstrip antenna may also be explored using the current density; in fact, the radiation patterns of the
microstrip antenna could also be calculated using the vector potential associated with the conductor current.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 14 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
The array factor defines the radiation pattern of spatially distributed isotropic
radiating elements in accordance with the amplitude and phase of individual
Array Factor (AF)
element excitation. The array factor is a function of the number, dimensional
spacing, and the amplitude and phase of the excitation signal of the elements.
The product of the array factor and the element factor is referred to as the pattern multiplication theorem. An
example will illustrate the convenience and efficiency of the theorem.
20
Bahl, I. J. and Bhartia, P., Microstrip Antennas, Chapter 7, Artech House, Dedham, MA, 1980.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 15 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
The perceptive reviewer may recognize the similarity of the array factor to the discrete Fourier transform of the
complex linear distribution of amplitude and phase of the radiating elements. For the specified equally spaced
condition and progressive phase of each element, one may write:
– PROPRIETARY – Page 16 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
15 15
ß = 0° ß = 0°
Array Factor Amplitude
5 5
0 0
−5 −5
− 10 − 10
− 15 − 15
0 30 60 90 120 150 180 0 30 60 90 120 150 180
Microstrip antenna arrays will be further explored within the electromagnetic simulations within the following
sections. In many instances, the element spacing for most applications is approximately half-wavelength (0/2) in
air. Although somewhat higher gain may be attained using element spacing beyond half-wavelength, increased
sidelobe levels, particularly near ±90° off boresight (grating lobes), are a direct result. Therefore, in the simulations
to follow, element spacing in the plane of the antenna will be maintained at approximately half-wavelength.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 17 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
1.0
Mag Max Swp Max
0
10
0.8
-10
20
20 dB 5.9GHz
-20
6
30
0.
-3
0
2.
0
40
-4
0
4
50 0.
0
-5
0 Mag 11.72 3.
Ang 0 60 0
-6 4.
0
5.0
70 0.2
-70
80 10.0
-80
5.8 GHz
10.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
p2
p1 90 r 0.937847
0
-90
x 0.262159
100
-100 -10.0
110
2
0 -0.
-11 -5.
0
12
0 .0
20 DB(|PPC_EPhi(0,1,90,2,1)|)[3] DB(|PPC_ETheta(0,1,0,2,1)|)[3] -4
-1 1_x_4_Array.$FSAMP 1_x_4_Array.$FSAMP 13 .0
0 -3
30 .4
-1 -0
p1: FREQ = 5.8 GHz
14
40
S(1,1)
.0
-1
-2
15
.6
1_x_4_Array.$FSAMP
50
-0
-1
160
0
-16
-0.8
-170
170
Four-Element Linear Array Radiation Patterns Four-Element Linear Array Input Impedance
(note increased gain, EL beamwidth reduction and sidelobes) (note increase in impedance bandwidth versus single element)
TABLE VII documents the performance of a Four-element linear array to which an amplitude taper has been
applied. As mentioned previously, the amplitude taper is utilized to reduce sidelobe levels. The amplitude taper is
implemented by changes to the impedance of the lines of the power divider in a manner that alters the impedance
at the principal junction of the power divider. A simple equation governs the power divider design under the
specified conditions.22
21
The current density annotation feature available within the AXIEM EM analysis software provides significant physically
insightful information. The graphic indicates that the amplitude and phase of the individual element excitation are equal. This
feature is uniquely valuable in evaluation of proper amplitude and phase excitation of more complex array structures.
22 The unequal power divider is documented at the website : http://www.microwaves101.com/encyclopedia/calpowerdivider.cfm
– PROPRIETARY – Page 18 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
Four-Element Linear Array Conductor Pattern Four-Element Linear Array Conductor Current23
(note power divider line impedance difference) (note unequal amplitude and equal phase excitation)
1.0
Mag Max Swp Max
0
10
0.8
-10
20
20 dB 5.9GHz
-20
6
30
0.
-3
0
2.
0
40
-4
0
4
50 0.
0
-5
0 Mag 11.63 3.
Ang 0 60 0
-6 4.
0
5.0
70 0.2
-70
80 10.0
-80
10.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
p2
p1 90
0
-90
100
5.8 GHz
-100 -10.0
110
r 1.06272
0 -0.
2 x 0.0449938
-11 -5.
0
12
0 .0
20 DB(|PPC_EPhi(0,1,90,2,1)|)[3] DB(|PPC_ETheta(0,1,0,2,1)|)[3] -4
-1 1_x_4_Array.$FSAMP 1_x_4_Array.$FSAMP 13 .0
0 -3
30 .4
-1 -0
p1: FREQ = 5.8 GHz
14
40
S(1,1) .0
-1
-2
15
.6
1_x_4_Array.$FSAMP
50
-0
-1
160
0
-16
-0.8
-170
170
Four-Element Linear Array Radiation Patterns Four-Element Linear Array Input Impedance
(note reduction to sidelobes versus equal amplitude) (note increase in impedance match bandwidth over single element)
Table VIII illustrates the configuration of a two-x-two array. The two-x-two array excitation is generally uniform
and the feature most prominent is that the gain is typically 6 dB above the single element configuration with the
commensurate reduction in E-plane and H-plane beamwidth. In this case, the gain, 11.45 dB, is limited due to the
inclusion of line and impedance mismatch loss. The conductor current discloses that each element of the array is
uniformly excited in amplitude and phase.
23
The current density annotation feature available within the AXIEM EM analysis software provides significant physically
insightful information. The graphic indicates that the amplitude and phase of the individual element excitation are equal. This
feature is uniquely valuable in evaluation of proper amplitude and phase excitation of more complex array structures.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 19 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
The differential feed at the center of the conductor pattern may be implemented from a balun located below the
plane of the array. Differential feed is required in this case due to the inverse polarity of the radiating edges. The
input impedance is 100 Ohms at the center frequency which is commensurate with typical balun impedance.
TABLE VIII: PERFORMANCE OF TWO-X-TWO MICROSTRIP ANTENNA ARRAY
Two x Two Array Conductor Pattern Two x Two Array Conductor Current
1.0
Mag Max Swp Max
0
10
0.8
-10
20
20 dB 5.9GHz
-20
6
30
0.
-3
0
2.
0
40
-4
0
4
Mag 11.45 50 0.
0
-5
0 3.
Ang 0
60 0
-6 4.
0
5.0
70 0.2
-70
80 10.0
-80
10.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
p2
p1 90
0
-90
100
S(1,1)
.0
-2
15
.6
50
2_x_2_Array
0
-0
-1
160
0
-16
-0.8
-170
170
Two x Two Array Radiation Patterns Two x Two Array input impedance
The individual excitation parameters of amplitude and phase determine the principal radiation intensity
beamwidth, gain, direction and sidelobe level. Clearly, antenna arrays are significant performance determinants to
communication and radar systems.
SERIES FEED FOR MICROSTRIP ARRAY ANTENNAS24
In addition to the parallel, or corporate, feed for microstrip antenna arrays, the series feed offers an additional
method of array implementation. The microstrip array series feed is illustrated in Figure 14 where an N-element
array is depicted as well as a five-element array featuring the ease with which amplitude taper may be
implemented.
24
The series fed array is also referred to as a traveling wave antenna.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 20 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
Using the single element microstrip antenna initially investigated and empirical adjustment of element width to
produce an amplitude taper, a 1-x-5 array has been constructed and an EM analysis executed. The results are
graphically illustrated in Table IX.
25
See equations 5 and 12.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 21 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
1.0
Mag Max Swp Max
0
10
0.8
-10
20
20 dB 5.9GHz
-20
6
30
0.
-3
0
2.
0
40
-4
0
Mag 13.7 50 0.
4
0
-5
0
Ang 0 3.
60 0
-6 4.
0
5.0
70 0.2
-70
80
5.8 GHz 10.0
-80
r 0.954835
x 0.0310346
10.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
p2
p1 90
0
-90
100
-100 -10.0
110
DB(|PPC_EPhi(0,1,90,2,1)|)[1] DB(|PPC_ETheta(0,1,0,2,1)|)[1] 2
0 -0.
-11 1_x_5_SF_Array_A.$FSAMP 1_x_5_SF_Array_A.$FSAMP -5.
0
12
0 -4
.0
20
-1
13 .0
0 -3
30 .4
-1 p1: FREQ = 5.8 GHz -0
14
S(1,1)
40
.0
p2: FREQ = 5.8 GHz
-1
-2
15
1_x_5_SF_Array_A
.6
50
-0
-1
160
0
-16
-0.8
-170
170
-1.0
180
26
The series fed array is also referred to as a traveling wave antenna.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 22 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
Input Impedance
Azimuth and Elevation Patterns
1.0
Swp Max
0.8
Mag Max 5.9GHz
0
10
-10
6
20
20 dB
0.
-20
0
2.
30
-3
0
40
Mag 18.38 0.
4
-4
0
Ang 0 3.
0
50
-5
0
0
4.
60
-6
0 5.0
0.2
70 5.8 GHz
-70
r 0.848633 10.0
80
x -0.0316375
10.0
-80
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
0
p2
p1 90
-90
100
-10.0
-100
110 2
-0. 0
-5.
-11
0 DB(|PPC_EPhi(0,1,90,2,1)|)[1] DB(|PPC_ETheta(0,1,0,2,1)|)[1]
4_x_5_SF_Array_A.$FSAMP 4_x_5_SF_Array_A.$FSAMP 12
0
-4
.0
20
-1 .0
13 -3
0 .4
30 -0
-1 p1: FREQ = 5.8 GHz
S(1,1)
14
.0
40
-2
p2: FREQ = 5.8 GHz
-1
.6
4_x_5_SF_Array_A
15
-0
50
0
-1
160
-0.8
0
Swp Min
-1.0
-16
-170
170
10 dB Mag Min
180
5.7GHz
Per Div -30 dB
The lower sidelobe levels of the azimuth pattern (red) disclose the The 4-x-5 array input impedance appears well matched; the result of
amplitude taper. The asymmetry of the azimuth pattern reflects the optimization of the 1-x-5 prior to elevation expansion of the array.
minor, non-zero phase excitation as evident from the conductor The bandwidth of the matched impedance may be improved by
current. The expected gain increase of 6.0 dB over the 1-x-5 array is adjusting the center frequency impedance point to the right in the
not realized due to power divider and conductor losses. 1_x-5 array. The input impedance at the band edges is improved
with only a slight degradation to the center frequency impedance.
As a final example of microstrip antenna array properties, the previous 4-x-5 array performance is enhanced by
amplitude taper in elevation to reduce the elevation beam sidelobes. The results are graphically illustrated in
Table XI.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 23 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
TABLE XI: 4-X-5 ELEMENT LINEAR ARRAY WITH AZIMUTH AND ELEVATION AMPLITUDE TAPER
a. 4-x-5 Linear Array with Azimuth and Elevation Amplitude Taper b. Conductor Current Distribution
Each row of the array is fed from the output of an unequal amplitude The conductor current discloses near zero phase excitation. Note the
power divider. As a result, the amplitude has an unequal distribution reduced conductor current of the top and bottom rows of the array.
in elevation.
1.0
Mag Max Swp Max
0
0.8
10
-10
5.9GHz
20
20 dB
-20
6
0.
30
0
-3
2.
0
40
-4
Mag 18.16 4
0
0.
50 3.
0
-5
0
Ang 0
60 0
4.
-6
0 5.0
0.2
70
-70
5.8 GHz
r 1.07574 10.0
80
x -0.0849199
-80
10.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
p2
p1 90
0
-90
100
-10.0
-100
DB(|PPC_EPhi(0,1,90,2,1)|)[1] DB(|PPC_ETheta(0,1,0,2,1)|)[1] 110
2
4_x_5_SF_Array_A.$FSAMP 4_x_5_SF_Array_A.$FSAMP -0.
0
-11
0
-5.
12 .0
0 -4
20
-1
13 .0
0 -3
.4
30 -0
-1 p1: FREQ = 5.8 GHz
14
S(1,1)
.0
40
-2
.6
15
4_x_5_SF_Array_A
50
-0
0
-1
160
0
-0.8
-16
Swp Min
-1.0
-170
170
10 dB Mag Min
180
The lower sidelobe levels of both patterns reflect the two dimensional The 4-x-5 array input impedance appears well matched; the result of
amplitude taper. The gain is slightly reduced from the equal power optimization of the 1-x-5 array prior to elevation expansion of the
distribution of the previous array. In many applications, -20 dB array. The bandwidth of the matched impedance may be improved by
sideband levels are acceptable. adjusting the center frequency impedance point to the right in the
1_x-5 array. The input impedance at the band edges is improved with
only a slight degradation to the center frequency impedance.
Notwithstanding the flexibility and ease of incremental design and analysis, the series/parallel feed of microstrip
array antennas is limited; particularly with respect to amplitude taper of the series feed elements. The limitation in
magnitude of the amplitude distribution results directly from the limited sensitivity of the single element
microstrip antenna to variation in conductor width, W. A quantitative evaluation of the sensitivity of microstrip
antenna directivity may be attained via numeric evaluation of the single element directivity equation (equation 12)
with W as a variable.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 24 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
A FINAL NOTE
A judicious approach to the EM simulation of antenna arrays is represented in the incremental analysis structure,
i.e., starting with a complete exploration of a single element of the array, and subsequently advancing to
additional elements of the rows and columns. The investment of an incremental structure yields benefits in the
form of reduced EM analysis time and improved correlation between expected and achievable performance – not
to mention reducing the inherent anticipatory stress during simulation execution time.
The discussion related to microstrip antenna feed has been limited to that of the direct feed at the conductor
edge, which results in limited operational bandwidth. The operational bandwidth of microstrip antennas may be
significantly increased via implementation of an aperture coupling below the microstrip element; the improved
performance is accompanied by the additional complexity and cost of a dielectric and conductor layer below the
radiating elements.
9.0 REFERENCES
[1] Carver, K. R. and Minks, J. W., Microstrip Antenna Technology, IEEE Transactions on
Antennas and Propagation, vol. AP-29, no. 1, January, 1981.
[2] Pozar, D. M. and Schaubert, D. H., Microstrip Antennas, IEEE Press, Piscataway, NJ, 1995.
[3] Balanis, C. A., Antenna Theory, 3rd Ed., John Wiley and Sons, Hoboken, NJ, 2005.
[4] Bahl, I. J. and Bhartia, P., Microstrip Antennas, Artech House, Dedham, MA, 1980.
[5] Bancroft, R., Microstrip and Printed Antenna Design, 2nd Ed., Scitech Publishing, Raleigh,
NC, 2009.
[6] Stutzman, W. and Thiele G., Antenna theory and Design, 2nd Ed. John Wiley, NY, 1998.
[7] Antenna Design Associates, Inc., Introduction to Practical Antennas, PCAAD version 6,
2007.
– PROPRIETARY – Page 25 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
– PROPRIETARY – Page 26 of 27
TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM: MICROSTRIP ANTENNA TUTORIAL
28PTC Mathcad is an Engineering Math Software program that enables computation and analysis using simplified data and formulae entry.
Additional information may be accessed at: https://www.ptc.com/en/products/mathcad
– PROPRIETARY – Page 27 of 27