Microstrip heatsink antenna cooled with Sapphire layer for Integrated RF transmitters

This paper reports the design and performance of Sapphire-based active heatsink antenna for Integrated RF transmitter. The antenna consists of a high-thermal-conductivity Sapphire layer serving as electromagnetic emitter and heatsink. We present the topology of such antenna as its electromagnetic and thermal performance. The antenna has been investigated by simulations and measurements. It is evidenced that the Sapphire layer has no substantial influences on the gain, radiation pattern and return loss of the antenna. Heat removed by the Sapphire layer was found as high as 1 Watt per centimeter square while the thermal resistance of the transmitter was of 5.5 ° C/W. The transmitter could operate over a wide temperature range.