An 11-GHz multi-beam dielectric rod antenna using non-planar array approach

A non-planar dielectric rod antenna array with operation frequency of 11.2 GHz is proposed, designed, and measured. This antenna array is combined with a RF-MEMS switch to realize the switched-beam performance. Moreover, this antenna array exhibits a uniform performance for different scan angles. The antenna characterization and measurement with the RF-MEMS switch have been done. The measured antenna pattern in the anechoic chamber is in a good agreement with the simulated antenna structure. At 11.2 GHz, the measured antenna has ~17.2 dBi realized gain, 22° beamwidth, and 7.3% bandwidth (i.e 800 MHz). The measured isolation between adjacent antenna elements is -40 dB.