Performance Analysis of Millimeter-Wave Phased Array Antennas in Cellular Handsets

Abstract

This letter discusses the usage of high-gain steerable antenna arrays operating at millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies for future cellular networks (5G). Based on the probable outline of the 5G networks, a method for characterizing phased array antennas in cellular handsets has been introduced. For analyzing the performance, the total scan pattern of the array configuration together with its respective coverage efficiency are essential to consider in order to compare different antenna designs and topology approaches with each other. Two design approaches and subarray schemes of these have been considered in order to illustrate the relevance of such a characterization method. The results show the importance of evaluating potential array antennas in such manners. The method can be applied to much more complex system models, where polarization diversity, hand and body effect, and statistical modeling of the channel may be included.