Multiband antenna system using RF micro-electro-mechanical switches, method for transmitting multiband signals, and signal produced therefrom

A method for transmitting a plurality of frequencies from a slot antenna, comprising the steps of:

• transmitting the first frequency from the slot antenna;
• closing a micro-electro-mechanical (MEM) switch coupled across the slot antenna, therein changing the resonant frequency of the slot antenna to a second resonant frequency and third resonant frequency;
• and
• transmitting the second and third resonant frequencies from the slot antenna after the MEM switch is closed;
• wherein when the MEM switch is closed, the slot is fed by more than one input signals.

A satellite communications system, comprising:

• a satellite including a slot antenna;
• and
• a micro-electro-mechanical (MEM) switch, coupled to the slot antenna, for changing the resonant frequency of the slot antenna, wherein the slot antenna has a first resonant frequency when the MEM switch is open and a second resonant frequency and a third resonant frequency when the MEM switch is closed;
• wherein when the MEM switch is closed, the slot is fed by more than one input signals.

A signal to be transmitted by an array of antennas, wherein the array of antennas comprises at least one slot, the slot being reconfigurable through a RF MEM switch coupled to the slot, the signal comprising a plurality of frequencies, wherein the signal is transmitted by performing the steps of:

• transmitting the first frequency from the slot antenna;
• closing a micro-electro-mechanical (MEM) switch coupled across the slot antenna, therein changing the resonant frequency of the slot antenna to a second resonant frequency and a third resonant frequency;
• and
• transmitting the second and third resonant frequencies from the slot after the MEM switch is closed;
• wherein when the MEM switch is closed, the slot is fed by more than one input signals.