A Structural Parameter Based Modification of Energy Conscious ESPAR Antenna System through Optimization for WLAN’s Dual-Band Operability

Phased array antenna’s radiation pattern can be electronically controlled, making them a relevant solution for multipath interference. Electronically Steerable Parasitic Array Radiator (ESPAR) antenna systems are part of the family of phased array antennas under the umbrella of aerial beam-forming antennas. Generally ESPAR antenna system design considers the quarter wavelength approach. In practice there are a significant number of multiband systems with many applications integrated in a single device. This paper looks at the design of a dual-band ESPAR antenna. The design is limited to the ESPAR antenna’s structural parameter modification through the loading of its element with inductance load (circuitry). This results in an antenna system which operates in both 2.4GHz and 5.8 GHz bands of the IEEE 802.11 WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) suitable for rural areas. The approach employed in this work consists of different stages of structural modification with careful optimization processes. The two adopted process are the quarter wavelength design and the optimization process, conducted through the genetic optimization algorithm.