A comparison of a finite and an infinite antenna array with cylindrical dielectric resonator elements

In this paper we compare radiation patterns and mutual coupling in finite and infinite square lattice arrays of dielectric resonator antenna (DRA) elements. The array elements are cavity backed, slot fed cylindrical DRAs that utilizes the HE_11δ mode. It is observed that the degree of the mutual coupling for non-edge elements is very close to the mutual coupling between the corresponding elements in the infinite array. However, a large difference is observed in the mutual coupling between the center element and the two corner elements in the finite array with respect to the corresponding elements in the infinite array. The coupling is strongest in the E-plane and it is shown how it changes the embedded element patterns in the array.