A 1 $\times$ 2 Dual-Band Antenna Array for Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) Handheld Reader Applications

In this paper, an aperture-coupled dual-band antenna array for ultra-high-frequency (UHF) and microwave band radio-frequency identification (RFID) handheld reader application is presented. The proposed two-element antenna array is composed of a feeding network, a ground plane with coupling apertures, patch radiators, and parasitic elements serving as directors. The spacing between the radiators is optimized to achieve the desired radiation patterns. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed antenna features good impedance bandwidth, moderate gain, and good radiation efficiency from 840 to 960 MHz (covering a universal UHF band) and 2.38-2.48 GHz (microwave band). The antenna is well suited for applications in RFID handheld readers.