A Ka-Band Active Integrated Antenna for 5G Applications: Initial Design Flow

Initial technology and design decisions are presented as part of a design flow to realize an active integrated antenna (array) element for 5G applications at Ka-band. The objective is to synthesize an antenna impedance that directly matches the amplifier optimal load impedance in order to maximize the overall efficiency of the integrated antenna-amplifier system while attaining an output power in the range of 15–25 dBm. A strategy to subsequently co-optimize this combined system is also discussed. Direct matching overcomes the insertion losses and bandwidth limitations of impedance-transforming networks, obviates the use of a standard 50-Ohm reference impedance, and potentially results in more cost-effective, more compact, and better performing active antenna designs in general.