High efficiency LTE band base station antenna array for MIMO system evaluation

This paper describes the thorough analysis of a highly-efficient prototype antenna array primarily aimed at providing a benchmark for MIMO base station antenna array and system evaluation. Results for a single element, dual-polarised antenna and a 4-element planar array employing air-dielectric patch elements to minimise losses are presented. Measured input response data show agreement in resonant frequency with FDTD simulations to within 1%. The single element is highly linearly polarised, has a maximum gain of 10dB and an estimated efficiency of 95% (all the errors in measurement having been identified systematically). The 2×2 planar array of elements has mutual coupling less than -25dB, almost zero pattern correlation and almost identical embedded far-field radiation patterns for each element, and thus ideal for MIMO system evaluation.