Antennas transmit information without the need for a wire. Wireless communication devices have improved in the matters of energy use, speed and miniaturization. However, antennas have not kept pace with the devices in these areas.
Small antennas use less power but larger antennas are faster. Currently, the optimum is 150 millimeter length and a frequency of 1 GHz. Researchers are hoping to achieve that speed with an antenna just 1 millimeter in length.
Small antennas can be used in many contexts, such as transmitting diagnostic or environmental information fast to help in better healthcare.
Researchers are looking at metamaterials, materials not created naturally. Working at nanoscales, they hope to engineer suitable materials and integrate them into the devices, also made of such materials.
Tiny devices with equally tiny antennas that can transmit data fast over any distance is the aim of the antenna researchers.
Read the story at AzoNano.
