Planar Microstrip antenna design represents a type of microstrip antenna that is positioned orthogonally to a ground plane. This design is frequently utilised in Fin and Stud mounted antennas that are very commonly used in metering and vending machines. The antenna element consists of a metallic strip that is directly bonded to a dielectric substrate, which is then grounded on the other side. The key advantage of this design is its compact and lightweight nature, which makes it ideal for applications where space and weight are critical considerations. It offers a low profile, conformability, and easy integration with circuit components, making it a popular choice for many modern communication systems. The radiation pattern of a Planar Microstrip antenna is omnidirectional, and sometimes hemispherical depending on the ground plane.
Fin Antenna
A type of antenna commonly identified by its distinctive 'fin' or 'shark-fin' shape, designed for low aerodynamic drag. Typically situated on top of modern car roofs, fin antennas are designed to withstand high-speed travel without significant wind resistance or impact on the vehicle's fuel efficiency. Inside the aerodynamically-shaped radome, one or more microstrip antennas are housed. These antennas, which are essentially flat strips of metal on a dielectric substrate, are used to receive a variety of signals including AM/FM radio, satellite radio, GPS, and cellular data. The compact and efficient design of the fin antenna, combined with its wide-ranging capabilities, makes it a standard feature in modern automotive designs.
Combo Antennas
Combination Planar are a multi-element antenna design that houses two or more planar or printed circuit board (PCB) antennas within a single protective housing, or radome. The individual antennas within the assembly can operate at different frequencies or polarisations, providing the versatility to meet complex or diverse communication needs. This compact and efficient design allows for multiple functionalities in a single package, making combination planar antennas ideal for applications requiring multi-band or multi-service operation while minimising physical footprint.