The European network ACE, Antenna Centre of Excellence

In order to improve the European research, the European Commission has created in the 6th Framework Programme (FP6) a new tool, called Network of Excellence (NoE). The Antenna Centre of Excellence, ACE, is such a network. Starting 1 January 2004, it has a duration of 4 years and 49 participants from 17 European countries. More than 250 researchers and around 100 PhD students are involved. ACE deals with the antenna function of radio systems. This includes the electromagnetic interface from conductors to free space radiated waves, the beam-forming functions, whether they are analogue or digital, and adaptive "smart" systems to optimize performance. The activities focus on with mm-wave and integrated antennas, wideband and multiband antennas, small and smart antennas, planar and conformal arrays, software, testing, education and dissemination in the antenna area.