Antenna Systems & Technology - Spring 2012 - (Page 8)

FEATURE ARTICLE Next-Gen Networks Call for the Re-Architecture Of Antenna Systems By Jeff Shamblin, Chief Scientist • Ethertronics Now that 4G networks and devices are being introduced, consumers have experienced fast speeds and access to information in a seamless way. In the 3G era, users became used to thinner and thinner devices with big screens and battery life that supported a full work day and/or activities. Consumers are excited about the possibility of having everything in one sexy device. The fact that 4G is deployed on differ- ent frequency bands, including the low 700 MHz band, makes OEMs integrate more and more components and features while maintaining the same level of service provided on 2G and 3G legacy bands. This EtherBook 1.0 is a challenge that most OEMs are trying to solve, and one of the biggest of all is the antenna system that has been placed in the forefront of concerns. In 4G LTE specifications, requirements are centered on MIMO (Multiple Input and Multiple Output). This means integrating multiple antennas, as well as the physical challenge of addressing lower frequency, within the same small form factor consumers are used to enjoying. As the only air interface sensor, the antenna now needs to be considered as part of the system. OEMs can no longer think about this as the last mechanical piece of a building block. In a way, LTE 4G is a wake-up call to explore the last frontier of the system “the antenna integration”, calling for a system review of this so called “black art”. From an industry perspective, this is great news as we have another opportunity to further reel in consumers craving the next best thing in wireless. Technically speaking, this great news brings with it some fundamental challenges. As a result, in order for carriers to deliver the fastest network connection speeds they’re advertising, and OEMs to design products that meet consumers’ desires for highperformance, feature-packed devices, a 8 ANTENNA SYSTEMS & TECHNOLOGY SPRING 2012 WWW.ANTENNASONLINE.COM http://WWW.ANTENNASONLINE.COM

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Antenna Systems & Technology - Spring 2012

Antenna Systems & Technology - Spring 2012
Editor’s Choice
Next-Gen Networks Call for the Re-Architecture of Antenna Systems
Wireless Infrastructure Cable and Antenna Testing Using the Next-Generation in Handheld Measurement Tools
Antenna Upgrade Challenges in Concealed Cell Towers
Antennas
Components
Wireless Communication
Test & Measurement
Industry News
Marketplace
Efficient Design and Analysis of an Ultra Wideband Planar Antenna with Band Rejection in WLAN Frequencies

Antenna Systems & Technology - Spring 2012