Smart antennas and front end modules in Q-band for backhaul networks

As mobile operators face increasing base station density as well as growing bandwidth requirements, mobile backhaul has become the new challenge. This article defines the architecture for future mobile backhaul networks as proposed in the framework of the FP7 EU SARABAND project The solution exploits a new and wider frequency band, Q-Band (40.5 to 43.5 GHz), to provide massive capacity. Since full deployment of Q-Band backhaul networks requires new technology development, an overview of disruptive antenna and front end technology developed within this project is also provided.