High-Gain 24 GHz Microstrip Patch Antenna Array Using a Corporate Wilkinson Power Divider

Abstract

This paper presents the design and simulation of a 32element microstrip patch antenna array operating at 24 GHz for millimeter-wave applications. The proposed array is designed on a Rogers RT5880 substrate. A compact Wilkinson power divider is employed to achieve uniform power distribution with excellent impedance matching and high port isolation. The simulated results demonstrate a reflection coefficient better than $\mathbf{- 3 0 ~ d B}$ for the single patch antenna, while the Wilkinson divider exhibits S11 below - 19 dB, equal power split of - 3 dB, and an isolation level of -20 dB between output ports. When integrated into the complete 32-element antenna array, the system maintains a strong impedance matching with a return loss around $-\mathbf{2 5 ~ d B}$ at $\mathbf{2 4 ~ G H z}$. The radiation characteristics confirm high directivity and improved gain, making the proposed antenna array suitable for automotive radar, millimeter-wave communications, and highfrequency wireless systems.