Abstract

Millimeter-wave frequencies have gained significant attention in recent years due to their vast potential for high-bandwidth communications. These frequencies, typically ranging from 30 GHz to 300 GHz, offer abundant available bandwidth for data-intensive applications. However, their efficient utilization requires the development of high-gain and low-profile antenna systems capable of operating at these frequencies. This research introduces a design of a high-gain, magneto-electric dipole (ME-Dipole) antenna array fed through a substrate integrated waveguide (SIW), incorporating mushroom beam-directors.
The aim of this thesis is to address the growing demand for efficient millimeter-wave antennas for wireless communication systems. In the proposed antenna structure, the integration of Epsilon-Near-Zero (ENZ) lenses within the design substantially enhances the directivity of the radiation pattern.
The single element of the ME-Dipole exhibits a maximum gain of 7.84 dBi, providing a significant boost in signal strength. By utilizing an array configuration with 1 × 8 elements, the antenna system achieves an impressive gain of 18 dBi, appropriate for long-range and high throughput communication links. The measurement data validates the antenna’s performance, demonstrating a 10dB impedance bandwidth spanning 33.3 (from 54 GHz to 74 GHz). Furthermore, the maximum
gain of 18 dBi exhibits remarkable gain flatness, with a variation of only 1 dBi across the frequency range of 54 GHz to 74 GHz. The integration of ENZ lenses and mushroom beam-directors presents a unique and innovative approach to enhancing the performance of millimeter-wave antennas. The fabrication results show a great agreement with simulation results too.