Five-Beam Fully Metallic Nolen Matrix-Based Array Antenna for 5G Applications at 26 GHz

The communication explores the development of a Nolen matrix (NM) operating at 26 GHz (25.25–26.75 GHz) using E-plane rectangular waveguides (RWs). The Nolen network comprises five coaxial input ports and seven outputs, each linked to a linear array of nine elements. This design yields a compact fully metallic $7 \times 9$ slot array with low profile, high efficiency, and beam-switching capabilities. Experimental results closely align with theoretical and simulated data, demonstrating gain values surpassing 21 dBi and measured total mean efficiencies of 80% across all scenarios. Moreover, the antenna’s steering ranges from −40° to +35°. Given its performance and frequency versatility, potential applications for this antenna include wireless communications, radar systems, satellite communications, and remote sensing.