A DNA-inspired function-reconfigurable double-helix antenna and video transmission system [Education column]

A function-reconfigurable double-helix printed antenna, inspired by DNA structures, is proposed. The antenna, consisting of two metal strips printed on a substrate, was designed, optimized, and fabricated. It was more stable than a metal-wire antenna. The antenna was demonstrated to have a remarkable functional reconfigurability with different lumped elements between the two helices. When the element is chosen as a capacitor, the antenna works as a broadband and high-gain antenna. When the element is an inductor, the antenna operates as a frequency-tunable antenna with a wide tuning range. While the antennas with both elements are circularly polarized, good performance of these antennas is exhibited.