A dual-band hybrid dielectric antenna for laptop computers

The paper describes a novel, unconventional antenna covering the frequency bands used for IEEE 802.11a/b/g wireless LANs. It comprises a dual-band radiator coupled to a microstrip transmission line by means of a shaped ceramic pellet. The application and the results obtained are discussed. There are potential advantages in the use of ceramic dielectrics in antenna designs in which the ceramic acts as a modifier of the characteristics of a more conventional structure, rather than an antenna in its own right. It is to be expected that this approach will lead to further highly-optimised designs for specific applications.