Characterization of Two-Dimensional Transmission Lines Periodically Loaded with Electronic Switches for Generation of Short Pulses

Abstract

The characterization of wave propagation on a two-dimensional switch line, i.e., a transmission line periodically loaded with electronic switches (the switch is open for voltages greater than a fixed threshold and closed otherwise), is discussed for the generation of short electrical pulses. It is found that a pulse on a switch line experiences significant width shortening during propagation, and that a two-dimensional switch line produces shorter pulses than a one-dimensional switch line, such that the bandwidth of the resulting short pulse in two dimensions is nearly √2 times as wide as that in one dimension. In this paper, we discuss the properties of hybrid waves in two dimensions, including their dependence on line parameters and propagation orientation. In addition, numerical calculations using a resonant tunneling diode as a switch that verify the line properties and demonstrate pulse shortening are presented.