Switchable parasitic antenna using PIN Diode- and MEMS-switches

Switchable parasitic antennas in realizing beam steering ability is proposed. This is achieved by forming four similar parasitic encircling a single driven element. Each of the parasitic has been shorted to the ground via a shorting pin maintaining the frequency resonant at 2.38 GHz. Two different type of switches are used;HPND-4005 PIN Diode and RMSW101 MEMS switches. Each of the switches is employed at specific locations in the parasitic to change its effective electrical length hence forming a reflector and director. Both antennas have a capability to steer beam at five modes angle. The proposed antennas is functioning for WiMAX (2.36-2.39 GHz) application. Both antennas performance are discussed in details.