Considerations on Configurable Multi-Standard Antennas for Mobile Terminals Realized in LTCC Technology

Abstract

This paper is an extended version of a paper presented at the EuCAP 2009 conference [1]. We present part of a long term research project that aims on designing a (re-)configurable multi-standard antenna element for 4G (4th Generation) mobile terminals based on LTCC (Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramic) technology. The antenna itself is a coupling element [2] that efficiently excites the chassis of the mobile terminal to radiate as an entire antenna. Coupling is optimized by a reactive tuning circuit. Several of these tuning circuits are realized in a single LTCC component and can be multiplexed to the antenna by a SPnT (Single Pole n Thru) antenna switch integrated into the LTCC component. The coils and capacitor in the LTCC component are configurable on the top-layer of the component. Thus, the component is configurable according to different mobile terminal chassis configurations and multiple bands.