MM-wave microstrip patch and slot antennas on low cost large area panel MCM-D substrates-a feasibility and performance study

This paper analyzes the performance and feasibility of microstrip patch and slot antennas on low-cost thin film MCM-D in the MM-wave frequency range. The critical parameters of millimeter design such as losses, bandwidth, and radiation pattern are discussed based on EM modeling and design examples of microstrip patch and compact rectangular slot loop antennas in the frequency range of 40-85 GHz. Simple technology modifications are pointed out to overcome the basic limitations of the patch antennas on thin films such as low efficiency and low bandwidth. To perform this feasibility study, a finite element method (FEM) is used as a simulation tool and HP8510XF vector network analyzer (VNA) as measurement equipment.