Design of reconfigurable antenna using RF MEMS switch for cognitive radio applications

Reconfigurable monopole UWB antenna with single notched features is presented. The proposed UWB antenna operates at frequency band from 3.2 GHz to 12 GHz. The notched frequency band is accomplished by combining switched meandered slot etched in the radiating patch. The switching reconfiguration is achieved by using RF MEMS series switch to reduce the interference to the primary users operating in WiMAX bands from 3.3 GHz to 3.9 GHz. The structure has two modes which are controlled by the RF MEMS switch. The proposed UWB antenna achieves (VSWR <; 2) from 3.1 to 12 GHz. Also, the simulated radiation pattern and current distribution at different frequencies are presented. The simulated results confirm the antenna is suitable for cognitive radio applications.