Feature: Communications
reducing the CAPEX. In addition, being a passive solution it uses very low power, reducing the ongoing OPEX costs of the solution. Beyond solving problems for 5G,
liquid crystal smart antennas offer benefits for future solutions, too. Most technologies supporting 5G are being stretched to their physical limitations to work at mmWave frequencies, yet, liquid crystal technology improves the performance of Electronically Steerable Antennas (ESAs) at higher frequencies. This also makes it a viable solution for supporting 6G and beyond.
A clear solution This core technology can take a number of forms, and it also offers an additional, unique advantage when used in CPE. With mmWave 5G blocked by buildings, to successfully deliver any form of indoor coverage requires equipment, which can be both expensive and unsightly.
MmWave works at frequencies similar to satellite, so it could be used to develop hybrid satellite/5G antennas for robust coverage in the absence of a 5G signal
Using liquid crystals allows designers
to make their equipment less visible, not because of its slim form factor, but because it is transparent. It can be held together with glass – also transparent, and have the metal/conductive elements of the antenna printed in a way invisible to the human eye. The result is a transparent antenna with
high functionality yet at low cost. The possibilities for transparent smart
antennas are endless, and they open 5G doors in ways not thought possible with current technologies. These antennas could be integrated into windows to deliver reliable, consistent in-building 5G, hugely expanding the possibilities of what 5G can achieve. Beyond this, there is an opportunity to
install this technology in connected cars. Transparent antennas can be integrated into sunroofs and car windows, and, given that mmWave works at frequencies similar to satellite, it could be used to develop hybrid satellite/5G antennas to provide robust coverage in the absence of a 5G signal. Even consumer devices can benefit from the integration of a transparent smart antenna into their screens. Since the display is typically visible at all times, it can navigate the challenge of signal being blocked by a user’s hand.
www.electronicsworld.co.uk November/December 2020 17
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