High-Gain Dual-Band Microstrip Antenna for 5G mmWave Applications: Design, Optimization, and Experimental Validation

Abstract

This study presents a novel dual-band microstrip antenna operating at 28/38 GHz, which is designed for fifth generation (5G) and next-generation communications. The objective was to create a high-gain, single-element solution that addresses millimeter-wave (mmWave) challenges, like attenuation and signal loss, offering a more efficient alternative to complex array antennas. The antenna was designed using Rogers RT/duroid 5880 as a substrate, and CST simulations were used to optimize the return loss, gain, and efficiency. Analytical methods and parametric analyses were used to further optimize the design. Additionally, an SMP connector was integrated into the simulated model using Antenna Magus software, followed by further refinement through additional parametric studies. The final compact antenna (33 x 27 x 1.6 mm3) demonstrates excellent performance with simplified fabrication. The antenna achieved bandwidths of 1.12 GHz at 28 GHz and 1.27 GHz at 38 GHz, with remarkably low return loss values of -53.04 dB and -83.65 dB, respectively. The gain values reached 7.82 dBi at 28 GHz and 8.98 dBi at 38 GHz-prototype measurements closely aligned with simulations, confirming reliability. This study introduces a high-performance, single-element antenna that is both simple and complex. The meticulous optimization process, including SMP connector variations, minimized the fabrication sensitivity and improved the overall performance, thereby marking a significant advancement in antenna design.