30-GHz multibeam antenna using bi-layer butler matrix circuits

We propose a novel feeding circuit for a 30 GHz planar multibeam antenna applied to high-speed wireless communication systems. The feeding circuit is a bi-layer 8-port Butler matrix constructed with phase adjusted slot-coupled hybrids and branch-line hybrids. The new circuit configuration eliminates troublesome vies and line crossings, so it can be manufactured by traditional photolithograph. The feeding circuit is designed by using the spectral domain moment method considering bonding film effects. A prototype of a multibeam antenna which has seven pencil-beams with 10° beamwidths is manufactured and tested; the beam scan angle error is less than 3° at 30 GHz.