Multiplexing Efficiency of MIMO Antennas

A simple and intuitive metric of multiplexing efficiency is proposed for evaluating the performance of multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) antennas in the spatial multiplexing mode of operation. Apart from gaining valuable insights into the impact of antenna efficiency, efficiency imbalance, and correlation on multiplexing performance, the metric is particularly useful for antenna engineers whose goal is to achieve the optimum antenna system design. Experimental results involving prototype mobile terminals highlight the effectiveness of our proposal.