Perturbed Square-Ring Slot Antenna With Reconfigurable Polarization

A perturbed slot with reconfigurable polarization that allows operation in left-hand circular polarization (LHCP), right-hand circular polarization (RHCP), or linear polarization (LP) is presented. This antenna topology is well suited for wireless communications applications requiring polarization diversity since it provides the ability to switch between the three polarization states. This design is realizable in cost-effective printed circuit board technology, making it an attractive design for low-cost personal communications devices. An element was simulated, built, and tested to illustrate the electromagnetic polarization properties of each polarization state. While the simulation includes p-i-n diode switches, the measurements only use manual switching to prove the concept.