Directional Reconfigurable Antennas on Laptop Computers: Simulation, Measurement and Evaluation of Candidate Integration Positions

This study reports on the integration of a novel reconfigurable microstrip antenna capable of reconfiguring both its radiation pattern and frequency response onto a generic laptop computer structure. The purpose of such an exercise is to provide the relevant information necessary to integrate high performance antennas onto structures that can be used in ad hoc communication scenarios as well as other demanding applications. To pre-evaluate candidate antenna locations on the laptop chassis, an electromagnetic visibility study (EVS) is performed. Once integrated into candidate positions that have been analyzed by the EVS, the operation of the antenna on the host structure is measured and assessed with consideration to several realistic electromagnetic environments. The resulting performance and packaging issues are discussed. A formalized procedure for the integration of the antenna onto any host chassis using the EVS as a tool is also included.