Enhanced smartphone connectivity: dual-band MIMO antenna with high isolation and low ECC

The research presents an eight-element dual-band modified T-shaped slot antenna array optimized for seamless integration into contemporary smartphones, addressing the burgeoning demands of 5G communication within the sub-6 GHz spectrum. Operating across two critical frequency bands spanning 3.37-3.61 GHz and 4.9-5.1 GHz, this advanced antenna system boasts impressive efficiency and performance metrics. Symmetrically arranged on the ground plane, each antenna element measures 20 × 11.8 mm² (equivalent to 0.233 λ×0.138λ), with a notable design feature being the inclusion of section Dx, strategically positioned between the ground-mounted antennas to enhance isolation among radiating elements by effectively managing surface currents. Fabrication results showcase isolation levels surpassing -14 dB, with an Envelope Correlation Coefficient (ECC) lower than 0.05 in the lower frequency band and 0.02 in the higher band, indicating robust performance in mitigating mutual coupling effects. The antenna array exhibits exceptional efficiency ranging from 48.5% to 63.7%, coupled with a commendable channel capacity of 38.8 bps/Hz and a gain of 3.9 dBi, highlighting its suitability for integration into smartphone devices and its potential to advance the next generation of mobile communication technologies.