Microstrip antennas for millimeter waves

Proof of the feasibility of low-cost conformal printed circuit board antenna arrays at millimeter wave frequencies is presented. It has become apparent that present day trends in microwave systems are indicating extensive design efforts in the millimeter wave region. Many proposed systems will be seriously hindered by a lack of readily available inexpensive components. Microstrip conformal antennas have distinct advantages in cost, variety of field pattern, and reproducibility for microwave system design. It is felt that similar advantages could be realized at millimeter wave frequencies. The results obtained with actual experimental hardware are described. Discussed are element arrays operating in the 35- and 60-GHz regions and a element array operating near 38 GHz.