Reconfigurable Compact Quad-port MIMO Antennas for sub-6 GHz Applications

Abstract

This paper presents compact quad-port frequency reconfigurable multi-input multi-output (MIMO) antennas for 5 G applications that operate at sub-6 GHz. The proposed design provides more isolation (>13 dB) and pattern diversity using four orthogonal radiating elements. C-shaped metal is used to extend the antenna's radiating elements by inserting one positive intrinsic negative diode (PIN) in the metal. The C-shaped metal and matching stub achieve frequency reconfigurability with a consistent radiation pattern. The PIN diode's switching characteristics allow the frequency to be shifted between two communication bands. One mode (diode ON) covers 2.5 and 5 GHz, while the second mode (diode OFF) covers another dual band of 3.5 and 5.7 GHz. Substrate dimensions are only 50 x 50 x1.6 mm3, making the proposed design compact. Antenna peaks at a gain of 4.18 dB and radiation efficiencies of 80 and 94% in the four frequency bands. The antenna design is appropriate for multi-functional wireless systems and cognitive radio applications since it spans frequency bands below 6 GHz and can be reconfigurable between wide and narrow bands.