Conceptual Difference in Reconfigurable Antenna from Smart Antenna

Objectives : To study the basic concepts of reconfigurable antenna and compare it with smart antenna. Methods/Statistical analysis : Both reconfigurable antenna and smart antenna have similar capabilities, but in the case of reconfigurable antenna it is achieved by single element. In the case of smart antenna it is achieved externally. We study the mechanism involved inside reconfigurable antenna like electrical, mechanical, optical and material changes. Findings : Combining the concepts of both reconfigurable and smart antenna is to attain better adaptivity for better performance. Combining these two properties can increase the applications and usability of the antennas. A microstrip antenna is capable of combining both the applications of smart and reconfigurable antennas. Application/Improvements : Further antenna can be designed to adjust for Direction of Arrival, Beam forming which can be reconfigurable to different frequency and polarization.