Use of low-cost patch antennas in modern wireless technology

In this article, an overview of a special type of antenna called patch antennas is presented. Patch antennas are used in several wireless applications like global positioning system (GPS) receivers and radar systems. A patch antenna is constructed by having a conductive patch on a dielectric substrate above a conductive ground plane. A patch antenna can be constructed and integrated on a PCB or within a chip along with other circuit components. The excitation of the patch is via a feed line. This feed will supply the patch with the electrical signal to be converted to an electromagnetic wave. Several feed types exist based on the patch type and application. This article gives an overview of the construction of this type of antenna, its major characteristics, and design parameters along with the technologies in which it is being used.