Design and Implementation of 2×2 Array Antenna for 5G and Ground-Based Navigation Applications

Modern communication demands antennas with ultra-wide bandwidth, high peak gain, and compact size for enhanced performance across a broad frequency spectrum. This study presents a novel 2x2 array antenna comprising four fractal antenna elements achieved by strategically cutting cylindrical slots of varying radii from edges and the center, alongside additional modifications. The antenna is designed on a Rogers RT-droid 5880 substrate measuring 50 mm by 50 mm, with a height of 1.6 mm and a patch size of 30 mm by 30 mm. Notably, the antenna exhibits a wide bandwidth and features multiple notches around 26.054 GHz, 28 GHz, 30.45 GHz, 32.086 GHz, and 33.312 GHz, achieving a high peak gain of 12.254 dBi. It effectively covers 5G applications within the 24.52 - 34 GHz range, functioning as a multi-band antenna with an ultra-wide bandwidth spanning from 24.52 GHz to 34 GHz. Specifically, it covers 5G millimeter wave bands n257 and n258, along with ground-based navigation frequencies. The antenna's performance was successfully verified through implementation using CST simulation software.