Ka-band phased patch antenna array

In this paper we propose a Ka-band microstrip-fed slot-coupled patch antenna and its application to a 4×4 phased antenna array. The single patch antenna is fabricated on a flexible liquid crystal polymer (LCP) substrate. Both simulated and experimental results reveal an impedance bandwidth of 23% and a gain of 6.3dB. The proposed 4×4 antenna array has a gain of 15.6dB. To realize beam steering, an electrically controlled phase shifter is developed and integrated with the 4×4 antenna array. A maximum of 30 degree beam steering is demonstrated.