Advanced antennas for next generation wireless access

Abstract

Millimeter wave multibeam antennas are a key technology for enabling beamforming and massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) infrastructure for the fifth generation wireless access (5G). They have attracted a great research attention nowadays and have been intensively investigated in order to achieve previously unattainable system performances. Here we present an overview of the recent advances in multibeam antenna designs based on reflectors, lenses and beamforming networks. We have discussed their principle of operation, design and implementation as well as suitability for the future 5G massive MIMO systems.