5G mmWAVE ANTENNA DESIGN

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5G mmWave antenna design

The latest cellular network technology, 5G NR, is developed in two stages: FR1, which utilizes lower frequencies covered by traditional cellular antennas, and FR2, which necessitates specialized 5G mmWave antenna design. FR2 introduces a set of new frequencies critical for mmWave antenna design:

• n257 at 28GHz (26.50-29.50GHz)
• n258 at 26GHz (24.25-27.50GHz)
• n260 at 39GHz (37.00-40.00GHz)

These frequencies differ significantly from the sub-6GHz bands used in earlier cellular systems, presenting new challenges for mmWave antenna design.

Read more about our antenna design process and philosophy

1. Transmission Path loss

In mmWave antenna design, transmission path loss becomes more pronounced as frequency increases. As the radiated signal weakens over distance, more antenna gain is required, unlike earlier omnidirectional cellular systems. However, omnidirectional capabilities are still necessary. The solution is an antenna array capable of controlling its main beam direction, allowing it to point maximum gain toward the base station.

2. Losses in materials

Path loss also occurs within the materials of your device. When a signal passes through materials such as plastics or potting compounds, its strength can drop significantly. In mmWave antenna design, material placement is crucial as it affects both tuning and signal attenuation.

3. Reflections from materials

When multiple materials are in the transmission path, signal reflections may occur. Reflected signals can lose power or, worse, disrupt the radiation pattern and gain, potentially causing blind spots in your device. Proper material selection and placement are vital in mmWave antenna design to minimize such issues.

4. Transmission-line losses

At higher frequencies, mmWave antenna design requires minimizing transmission-line lengths on PCBs due to increased material losses. Special PCB materials may be necessary, and reducing transmission-line length to the absolute minimum is essential for maintaining performance.

Radientum Services for 5G mmWave antenna design

Radientum offers comprehensive 5G mmWave and other antenna design services for full product development projects from feasibility studies through different design stages to consultancy at mass production phase.

Our antenna simulations are critical at reaching accurate performance forecast in early stages of development enabling informed decisions before manufacturing of prototypes. Simulation enable us to use our extensive know how in product integration to find new innovative antenna solutions.

We specialize in high performance integrated solutions that are cost driven. Explore our references to see our success in mmWave antenna design!

References

Check out our posts related to 5G mm-wave development:

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