Features of the implementation of fixed phase shifters on coupled microstrip transmission lines with a stub

Abstract

Fixed phase shifters with a phase-shifting channel based on coupled transmission lines of class II with a stub have a number of advantages in comparison with previously known structures for similar purposes. However, their practical implementation causes difficulties associated with the topological features of the structure, which, in turn, leads to a deterioration in frequency characteristics. In this regard, a numerical analysis of inhomogeneities in a class II structure with a stub and an assessment of their influence on the frequency characteristics of fixed phase shifters is required. In this work, circuitry and electrodynamic modeling of class II structure elements has been carried out, which showed that the greatest parasitic effect on the frequency characteristics of the phase shifter has a nonzero coupling coefficient of single transmission lines and an inhomogeneity localized at the junction of the short-circuited stub and the output arms of the associated transmission lines. A fixed phase shifter with a phase-shifting channel based on a smoothly stepped structure with a stub has been developed. The presented results of the study of fixed phase shifters based on microstrip coupled transmission lines of class II with a stub can be useful to scientific and technical workers engaged in the development of functional devices for the phase shift of microwave signals.