A Dual-Polarized 39 GHz 4x4 Microstrip Antenna Array for 5G MU-MIMO Airflight Cabin Connectivity

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and experimental validation of a 39 GHz dual-polarized 4x4 microstrip antenna array. The array consists of 16 slot coupled circular microstrip patches, fed through SMPS connectors. The procedure requiring a reduced number of cables for measurement of the uniformly excited antenna array is also presented. The array exhibits 18 dBi peak gain and 2.9 GHz reflection bandwidth and is intended for use in a 5G base station inside an airplane. The presented antenna is characterized by a simple feeding system which results in a reduced number of via-holes and dielectric layers.