A Nonuniform Large Antenna Arrays (NULaA) geometry for 5G and beyond application: a comprehensive review

Momin, Mullah and Islam, Md. Rafiqul and Abdul Malek, Norun Farihah (2026) A Nonuniform Large Antenna Arrays (NULaA) geometry for 5G and beyond application: a comprehensive review. Journal of Microwaves, Optoelectronics and Electromagnetic Applications, 25 (1). pp. 1-35. ISSN 2179-1074

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Abstract

Nonuniform Large Antenna Arrays (NULaA) represent a possible approach for 5G and forthcoming wireless communication technologies. This comprehensive study analysed NULaA geometry, performance benefits, and drawbacks in 5G applications. Compared to uniform arrays, NULaA feature better beamforming, less mutual coupling, and higher spectral efficiency. The uneven spacing of antenna elements allows for more array design flexibility, better sidelobe suppression, spatial resolution, and power efficiency. Linear, circular, planar, fractal, and sparse NULaA geometries were evaluated to determine their suitability for 5G applications. NULaA offer enhanced spatial selectivity, less interference, and tiny designs for urban applications, according to this review. NULaA introduce complex optimisation processes, calibration and maintenance challenges in large deployments, and economical considerations connected to bespoke designs and sophisticated production methods. Current research trends and future directions highlight AI-driven optimisation, new materials, and NULaA' integration with other 5G technologies. Feature Selective Validation (FSV) is applied to selected references with simulated and measured results, yielding Good to Excellent agreements (GDM < 0.32), confirming NULaA's performance superiority. This review sheds light on how NULaA will shape wireless communication and 5G networks.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Subjects:	T Technology > T Technology (General) T Technology > T Technology (General) > T10.5 Communication of technical information
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Engineering > Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering Kulliyyah of Engineering
Depositing User:	Dr Norun Abdul Malek
Date Deposited:	09 Jul 2026 11:00
Last Modified:	09 Jul 2026 11:00
Queue Number:	2026-06-Q3845
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/129623

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