Antenna technology for wireless communications

This paper discusses antenna technologies for wireless communications and specifically those technologies which will enhance link performance and reduce the visual impact of the antenna tower. A brief discussion of the importance of antenna technology transfer from the aerospace/defense sector is made. Antenna technology for wireless communications is categorized into Smart Antenna Systems and Antenna Aperture Technology. Smart antenna technology is described in terms of the two most common approaches: Fixed Multiple Beam Antennas and Adaptive Arrays. Antenna aperture technology introduces concepts of stealth antennas and tower top amplifier implementation. Antenna gain and diversity concepts are also presented.