Performance comparison of serial and corporate feeding networks in a rectangular Microstrip patch antenna array

Abstract

One of the important aspects of a microstrip patch antenna array is the availability of the two feeding networks applicable to them, which are the serial and corporate feeding. A good impedance matching and optimal radiation condition depends on the feeding techniques used. Antennas fabricated and measured will also reflect a minor percentage of frequency shifting, depending on the different feeding method used. This work is an effort to simulate and fabricate the two sets of microstrip array feeding techniques. Each array contains two elements of rectangular patches and is designed and simulated using Method of Moments (MoM). The simulated dimensions are then fabricated and measured to determine the degree of distinction between the two. The simulation work is done using Microwave Office software, while fabrication is done on an FR-4 board with a relative permittivity (er) of 4.7. Antennas designed and simulated for each feeding technique achieved the best return losses at the desired frequency, which is 2 GHz, with Sn values lower than -10 dB. At the same time, both produced relatively sufficient bandwidth for its kind. Radiation performances of both techniques exhibited are acceptable. Both antennas produced maximum E-and H-plane co- and cross-polarization difference in the magnitude of -15 dB.