140-GHz TE20-Mode Dielectric-Loaded SIW Slot Antenna Array in LTCC

A TE₂₀-mode substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) fed slot antenna array is proposed at 140 GHz for fabrication ease and cost reduction. The antenna array consists of a feeding network, radiators, and dielectric loadings. The proposed antenna array and an SIW-waveguide transition are integrated into the multilayered low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC). The feeding network comprises a power divider and E-plane couplers that support the TE₂₀ mode. Each pair of symmetrical longitudinal radiating slots is fed by the TE₂₀ mode in a doubled-width SIW. The pair of radiating slots is loaded by a doubled-width open-ended via-fence structure in which a higher order mode is also excited. Experimental results show that an 8 × 8 slot array with the transition achieves a maximum boresight gain of 21.3 dBi at 140.6 GHz and an impedance matching bandwidth of 129.2-146 GHz with a boresight gain above 18.3 dBi.