This research aims to meet the increasing demand for faster data-rates and reliable connectivity for everyone everywhere, and to support new technologies such as Internet of Things, millimeter waves have been identified as a suitable spectrum for developing fifth generation technology. New types of antennas are needed that can dynamically focus radiation in particular directions to minimise losses and interference.

Traditionally, complex phase shifters feeding antenna arrays are used to beamform radiation patterns in different directions. These can be cumbersome and are not ideal for small installations. This work is looking into developing cheaper and more compact active antenna array systems for electronic beam-steering at 28GHz.

We use industry-standard electromagnetic simulation software to model the performance of advanced antennas. Loughborough University has a state of the art Spherical Near-Field antenna measurement chamber that operates up to 50GHz, which allows us to easily verify our designs.

We expect to produce a working prototype of a low profile 28GHz antenna that is able to switch its main radiating beam in both vertical and horizontal planes, so that it can accurately target multiple users with minimal interference.