Abstract. We introduce a new tunable reflectarray element for an
operation frequency of 26 GHz in the k-band. It is shown that a
340∘ continuous tunning range of the reflected wave can be
accomplished by using an aperture-coupled patch antenna with only one single
varactor diode. The simplified design and the small needed space make it
usable for k-band reflectarrays with many elements. The functionality of the
reflectarray element is explained and the crucial parts are analyzed. The
approach to get a full phase shift is discussed in detail. A bias-T is
developed to provide the control voltage to the varactor diode without
interfering with the high frequency path. The high frequency path and the
DC-path are decoupled by 39 dB using a bias-T. A commercial off-the-shelf
varactor diode is selected and its functionality at 26 GHz is verified.
Therefore, a test printed circuit board with through, reflect, line
standards is developed to de-embed the varactor diode and to evaluate it
with a vector network analyzer. The reflectarray is simulated in a unit cell
with plane wave excitation and periodic boundary condition using the
simulation software package CST Microwave Studio™.