| Spatial Diversity Multiple Access (SDMA) can be used to increase the capacity of a system by distinguishing users based on location. This system requires a specialized antenna in order to receive multiple radio signals. The current SDMA system uses Edwin Tung's antenna which has been successfully tested in a narrowband frequency range. The goal of this thesis is to develop a broadband antenna that can be integrated into the SDMA system.;Using simulation software based on the moment method, a traveling wave antenna array composed of twelve planar antenna elements was developed and tested. This antenna was constructed using printed circuit board (PCB) material and manufacturing methods. Measurements were conducted and compared to the simulated results. The results compare favorably, although the antenna properties show some sensitivity to the PCB material used. With the proper PCB material, this antenna is well suited for the SDMA system. |
