Ferrites for Tunable RF and Microwave Devices

Abstract

AbstractMicrowave systems for communications and radar require control of propagation of the rf signal. Devices that accomplish this function include phase shifters, isolators and circulators, and tunable filters. In many instances, these devices are magnetic and are based on the variable permeability of electrically insulating ferrimagnetic oxides (ferrites). Recent advances in microwave ferrite devices have featured superconductor circuitry that promises to virtually eliminate insertion losses due to rf surface resistance. Lower conduction losses allow the use of small lightweight microstrip configurations in place of traditional bulky waveguide structures. For operation at cryogenic temperatures ferrimagnetic spinels and garnets will require chemical alteration to realize the full potential of these devices. Challenges include the reduction of magnetocrystalline anisotropy to optimize switching energies and speeds, and the elimination of fast-relaxing impurities in the magnetic garnets that can increase magnetic losses and degrade resonator Q factors at low temperatures.