An integrated LTCC millimeter-wave planar array antenna with low-loss feeding network

Abstract

A novel configuration of millimeter-wave planar array antenna based on low-temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) technology is investigated. The configuration exploits the three-dimensional (3-D) integration feature of LTCC by incorporating a novel quasi-cavity-backed patch (QCBP) element using a pair of grid-like conductor walls and a mixed feeding network configuration. A proposed LTCC planar array antenna consisting of 16 by 16 elements is designed, manufactured and tested. Good agreement is achieved between the theoretical performance and the measured results.