Mutli-layer CTS antenna array in PCB technology for SatCom applications
Résumé
A low-profile antenna for satellite communications (SatCom) applications is presented here. The antenna covers the entire K/Ka frequency bands from 19 GHz to 31 GHz with a reflection coefficient better than -10 dB, corresponding to a relative bandwidth of more than 50%. A continuous transverse stub (CTS) antenna array is chosen as a radiating aperture for its very wideband performance. The radiating aperture is fed by a pillbox quasi-optical beamformer. The full antenna is realized in printed circuit board (PCB) technology by stacking several dielectric layers without any buried or blind vias in the full stack-up. Multiple horns are placed along the focal plane of the pillbox coupler to achieve beam-scanning in elevation. +/- 25 degrees. The peak value of the realized gain is 19 dBi and radiation efficiency equals 50%.