Microstrip antennas with full polarization diversity using packaged RF MEMS switches

The design of a 1.32 GHz microstrip antenna with polarization diversity using commercially available low-loss packaged RF-MEMS switches is presented. Two OMRON single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switches are used in a novel re-configurable feed network which is able to provide four polarization states; vertical, horizontal, left-hand circular and right-hand circular polarizations. A hardware demonstrator with measured return loss in the polarization states is presented.