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Custom n78 5G MIMO Panel Antenna: Balancing Compact Size with 65° Beamwidth

2026-05-18

Our client approached us with a clear requirement: they needed a 5G mimo panel antenna operating in the n78 band (3300–3800 MHz)—the widely adopted 3.5GHz frequency for 5G networks across Europe, Asia, and beyond. The specifications were precise:

  • Half-power beamwidth: 60–65 degrees

  • Polarization: ±45° dual polarization (MIMO)

  • Form factor: Compact, small-size design

The challenge was balancing these seemingly conflicting demands. Achieving a 65° horizontal beamwidth in a small-form-factor panel antenna while maximizing gain requires careful engineering—particularly at 3.5GHz, where component dimensions directly influence radiation patterns.

Our Solution: Engineering from the Radiator Up

RF element’s R&D team approached this project systematically, starting with the most critical component: the radiating element.

Proprietary 3.5GHz Die-Cast Aluminum Radiators

Rather than adapting an off-the-shelf design, our engineers utilized our in-house developed 3.5GHz aluminum die-cast radiating elements. These radiators, precision-manufactured through our vertically integrated die-casting process, offer several advantages:

  • Lightweight yet durable: Aluminum construction with sandblasting and electroplating surface treatment for corrosion resistance

  • Precision dimensions: 33×33×23 mm, enabling compact array configurations

  • Proven performance: Operating temperature range of -55°C to +60°C

Our proprietary aluminum alloy die-cast radiator technology delivers superior heat dissipation, lightweight durability (30% lighter than copper alternatives), and precision-machined surfaces that minimize signal loss.

Panel Antenna Architecture

n78 5g mimo panel antenna.jpg

Using these custom radiators, our engineers designed the panel antenna’s aluminum reflector base structure to optimize the radiation pattern. The ±45° dual-polarized MIMO configuration enables spatial diversity and improved signal quality in multipath environments—essential for reliable 5G connectivity.

The resulting 5G MIMO panel antenna achieves the following specifications:

  • Frequency Range: 3300–3800 MHz (n78)

  • Gain: 12 dBi

  • Horizontal Beamwidth: 65°

  • Vertical Beamwidth: 28°

  • Polarization: ±45°

  • VSWR: ≤ 1.8

  • Dimensions: 239 × 190 × 35 mm

  • Weight: 1.0 kg

Meeting the Client’s Coverage Needs

The 65° horizontal beamwidth provides optimal sector coverage—wide enough for effective area coverage yet focused enough to concentrate signal energy where it’s needed most. Combined with 12 dBi gain, this 5G panel antenna delivers strong, consistent signal coverage across the target area while maintaining the compact footprint the client required. The small form factor (239×190×35 mm) enables discreet installation in space-constrained environments without compromising performance.

RF element: Your Partner for Custom 5G Antenna Solutions

This project exemplifies RF element’s core strength: translating specific client requirements into optimized, production-ready antenna solutions. As a vertically integrated 5G antenna manufacturer, we control every stage of development—from electromagnetic simulation using CST Microwave Studio and HFSS, through mold design and precision die-casting, to final surface treatment and quality validation.

Our customization capabilities span:

  • Frequency bands: Sub-6 GHz (including n78, n79) and mmWave

  • Gain and beamwidth: Tailored to specific coverage requirements

  • Form factor: Compact, low-profile, or custom dimensions

  • Polarization: Single, dual ±45°, or circular

  • Environmental ratings: IP67, extreme temperature ranges, corrosion resistance

Whether you need a 3.5GHz panel antenna for urban small cells, a 5G MIMO panel antenna for industrial IoT, or a custom design for a unique deployment scenario, RF element delivers engineered solutions, not just catalog products.

Contact our engineering team today to discuss your custom 5G panel antenna project. Explore our full antenna portfolio to see how we turn specific requirements into reliable, high-performance antennas.

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