Design Methodology and Optimization of Distributed MEMS Matching Networks for Low-Microwave-Frequency Applications

Abstract

A design methodology for the distributed microelectromechanical system (MEMS) impedance matching networks based on the optimization of the uniformity of the Smith chart coverage has been developed. The proposed approach was validated through a comparison between a traditional coplanar waveguide (CPW) design and an improved design based on a slow-wave (SW) structure. The enhanced reconfigurable impedance matching network has been developed for low-frequency applications. The network is based on a distributed MEMS transmission line (DMTL) coupled with the SW structure to reduce the total physical length of the network by 25% in comparison with a traditional DMTL. An extensive analysis was performed to identify the impact of each design parameter in order to optimize the structure and reduce the required size for relatively low-frequency applications. Several parameters are extracted from the electromagnetic simulation results and are used to design the proposed impedance matching network. Measurement results confirm the efficiency of the proposed design methodology in improving the impedance coverage and also miniaturization of the DMTL impedance matching networks.Index Terms-Distributed MEMS transmission line (DMTL), RF microelectromechanical system (MEMS) tuner, slow-wave (SW) DMTL, tunable matching network.

Shunt MEMS switch requirements for Tunable Matching Network at 1.9 GHz in composite substrates

“…Resulting in low C r that are not usable for MEMS switches operating at 1.9 GHz. A possible approach is to increase the dielectric constant (ε r ) [13]. However, our goal is to employ pre-selected CPWG transmission line configurations and to seek for adaptability in the tuning component.…”

The Image Phase Approach for the Design of Rf Mems Shunt Switches

“…RF MEMS coplanar waveguide (CPW) shunt connected capacitive switches are two state devices typically composed by a metal bridge which is actuated by means of a bias voltage [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]. The "UP" configuration of the bridge corresponds to the "ON" state whereas the "DOWN" configuration is associated to the "OFF" one.…”

A Novel Multi-State Integrated Rf Mems Switch for Reconfigurable Antennas Applications

“…The tunability property is also known as reconfigurability characteristic. Reconfigurable devices such as antennas [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14], filters [15][16][17][18][19], impedance tuners [20][21][22][23], phase shifters [24,25] and amplifiers [26][27][28][29] have been used in recent years, considerably. The pattern, polarization, bandwidth and resonant frequency are fixed radiation parameters of the conventionally used antennas.…”