5-6 GHz low-noise active antenna array for multi-dimensional channel-sounding

The design and measurement of a 5-6 GHz active receiving antenna array is presented. To obtain a compact and robust design, active downconverters are monolithically integrated using a standard 0.6 /spl mu/m-MESFET process and combined with planar linearly polarized aperture-coupled patch antennas. A very low noise figure of 3.5 dB and a total conversion gain of 30 dB is achieved. The use of dedicated monolithically integrated components leads to very low gain and phase variations. This active array will be used in a multi dimensional channel sounder.