Experimental Analysis of a 1x4 Circular Patch Multiband Array Antenna with Improved Radiation Efficiency for Wireless Communication

Abstract

This study presents the design and analysis of a 1x4 circular patch multiband array antenna optimized for wireless communication applications. The research highlights advancements in low-profile, high-performance antennas, emphasizing their role in improving signal strength and network performance across frequency ranges suitable for 5G and WLAN applications. The Von Neumann architecture serves as a conceptual basis, with microstrip patch antennas chosen for their simplicity, ease of fabrication, and ability to support multiband configurations. Various stages, including single-patch, 1x2, and 1x4 array configurations, were explored to achieve enhanced bandwidth and gain. It is indicated that a substantial improvement in performance with the 1x4 array configuration, yielding a maximum gain of 8.9 dBi and a bandwidth of 600 MHz. The reflection coefficient at critical frequencies (-37 dB at 4.2 GHz) demonstrated strong impedance matching. Additionally, the design achieved a VSWR of 1.2, close to the ideal value, with good cross-polarization suppression and directional radiation patterns. The 1x4 circular patch array antenna design demonstrated excellent performance across a wide frequency range, making it suitable for a range of wireless communication applications, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Zigbee. The results show strong alignment between simulated and experimental data, validating the antenna’s potential for low-power, short-range applications and offering significant improvements in return loss, gain, and directivity.