Bandwidth limitations of log-periodic microstrip patch antenna arrays

Results are presented for the frequency dependence of the propagation constant of uniform microstrip patch arrays that allow the bandwidth limitations of log-periodic patch arrays to be deduced. It is found that direct coupling of the patch to the feed line limits the log-periodic bandwidth to about a 2:1 frequency range. However, the introduction of series reactance into the equivalent circuit such as by the use of overlaid patches indicate that log-periodic action over a very wide bandwidth is possible which will then be limited by the uniform substrate and production tolerances.