12 GHZ multi-layer square patch antenna for satellite receivers

Abstract

Usually patch antennas are known for their narrow-bandness which is a consequence of the widespread use of substrate material. In this paper, in order to open up the bandwidth, two square patches were designed and were being excited through an aperture (slot). The patches, feed and the slot were fabricated separately, stacked together manually, and then tested. From the simulation results, an impedance bandwidth of about 8%, a return loss of -10 dB and a gain of 10 dBi were realized at 60% efficiency. With this fabrication process, some errors were expected in the measured results due to layer-to-layer registration issues, but to a great extent it has been shown that multilayered patch antenna could be designed, fabricated and tested at 12 GHz with a reasonable gain and bandwidth. A good match at -15 dB return loss with a gain of 9.8 dBi were measured although with a slight shift in operating frequency due to imperfection in the manufacturing process. (5 pages)