60 GHz radio link characteristic studies in hallway environment using antipodal linear tapered slot antenna

Abstract

Millimetre-wave (MmW) frequencies offer large bandwidth with which gigabit data rates can be easily achieved with simple radio architectures. At MmW frequencies, the short wavelength enables integration of the antenna on the same chip as the microwave monolithic integrated circuits. This research work emphasises on the design and development of antipodal linear tapered slot antenna (ALTSA) using substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) technique and its radio link characteristics at 60 GHz for wireless local area network and wireless personal area network applications. SIW feeding technique is used to eliminate the unwanted radiations from feed. The proposed antenna is designed and simulated using three-dimensional (3D) electromagnetic tools. Radio propagation is profoundly site specific and depends on frequency of operation, interference from surroundings and other dynamic factors. To predict signal strength, delay and achievable data rates, it is important to characterise the radio channel. The radio link study is carried out using ALTSA with radio frequency measurement equipment to measure and characterise propagation channels in narrow hallway environment at 60 GHz.