Active metallic photonic band-gap materials (MPBG): experimental results on beam shaper

We focus our attention on the possibilities to control the beam radiated by antennas, which are initially omnidirectional using active metallic photonic band-gap materials (AMPBG). In fact, MPBG composed of continuous or discontinuous wires present different and interesting characteristics when they are used as an antenna reflector or a radome. Adding active components on wires allows one to switch from continuous to discontinuous structures. Wires with active elements on can then be placed inside a structure, which shapes the beam radiated by a dipole antenna. Experimental results show that it allows one to switch on/off the beam or to change its shape.