By now, you have probably heard of IoT (Internet of Things). IoT is the name given to smart devices that are able to transmit anonymous data over a wireless network using antennas. Wireless devices are a normal part of our day, and even mundane products can have a huge impact. Items such as wireless ear buds, smart watches, and even sensors used to monitor crops and weather conditions for agriculture are part of IoT.

The increase in wireless IoT applications has forced many component manufacturers to retool some commonly used parts, including antennas, to transmit signals and data. Some devices are able to use currently available antennas, but miniaturization of devices has decreased available PCB space. This change has led to innovation in antenna technology and support services.

Antennas in IoT

There are three general types of antennas used in IoT: wire antenna, PCB/trace antenna, and chip antenna. Each type has its pros and cons.

Common types of Antenna topologies in IoT:

Wire Antenna

• Low cost
• Easy design
• Space constraints

PCB / Trace Antenna

• High performance
• Needs sometimes matching
• Needs RF expertise

Chip Antenna

• Small size
• Easy to integrate
• Needs usually matching

Multilayer Chip Antennas

Multilayer chip antennas, specifically, have been developed to address the decreased space on the PCB common in smaller IoT devices. Multilayer chip antennas having many benefits including:

• Multilayer ceramic structure
• High permittivity ceramic mix
• Omni-directional radiation pattern
• Easy to integrate
• Low profile

For more information on multilayer chip antennas, check out our AppNote.

Addressing Difficulties In Design

The shift to miniaturized technology has allowed for new developments in electronic design, but can constrict front-end RF design. Antennas send and receive information through electromagnetic signals, and are therefore sensitive to electromagnetic fields in their environment. One way to address this is to create unique impedance matching circuits that address the needs of the device and the particular antenna used.

Designers have found success using antenna matching support. Antenna matching support helps you find the right components, but also helps in the design process for performance optimization. This is especially useful for designers who may not have the background in RF design. The goal of antenna matching support is to help create strong, consistent wireless connections.

For more information on antenna matching support and multilayer chip antennas check out the following pages:

Antenna Matching Support

WE-MCA Multilayer Chip Antenna