Design of a circular antenna array for MIMO channel sounding application at 2.53 GHz

For future mobile technologies, the characterization of multiple links is becoming increasingly important to enhance the performance of the multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) techniques in Long Term Evolution (LTE) and 5G networks. These technologies require extensive channel measurements to investigate channel characteristics and develop new channel models. In this paper we present a dual polarized, circularly arranged, low loss switched patch antenna array for wave propagation measurements at 2.53 GHz. The array comprises two rings with eight elements (2×8 SPUCA). All 16 elements are dual polarized and the array is able to handle 40 W CW RF power. The antenna array was optimized for high resolution parameter estimation (HRPE).