Efficient 5.8 GHz Microstrip Antennas for Intelligent Transportation Systems: Design, Fabrication, and Performance Analysis

In this study, we designed a high-performance, compact E-shaped microstrip antenna optimized for intelligent transportation systems, operating at 5.8 GHz. Utilizing simulation tools such as CST Studio Suite 2022 Learning Edition, Ansys HFSS 2022 R1, and MATLAB 2022b PCB Antenna Designer, we ensured consistent physical parameters. Fabricated with a 1.6 mm thick FR-4 substrate and a 50 Ω microstrip line-feeding technique, the antenna measures 35 × 50 × 1.6 mm³, smaller than already existing designs. At 5.75 GHz, it exhibits a return loss of −23.68 dB and a VSWR of 1.140 dB, ensuring stable performance within the desired frequency band. Our findings recommend its integration into vehicle-to-infrastructure wireless communication systems. Comparison across simulation environments and laboratory measurements highlights the close alignment of results with those from Ansys HFSS 2022 R1, affirming its reliability.