5G mm Wave Antenna Design: Streamlined Workflow for Smart Devices

5G comprises two major, widely separated bands with different frequency allocations around the world. The high band, typically above 24 GHz, relies on beamforming at the transmitting equipment and the receiving device in order to achieve a strong connection. Steerable antenna arrays provide the required coverage by incorporating 2 or 3 arrays around the device. Potential blockage from a finger or hand can be mitigated.

The design of the installed arrays, their placement and their orientation is a complex technical challenge. Although beamforming is used, spherical coverage must be maintained in highly dynamic environments. In addition, any focus or concentration of beams must not exceed global regulated requirements. Electromagnetic simulation software is an ideal solution to provide fast and highly automated solutions where testing could take weeks.