Zero Meta-material Ferroelectric Phase Shifter Embedded inside LTCC

Abstract

This paper describes the design and processing of a zero meta-material phase shifter (ZMPS) embedded within a low temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC) structure. The designed ZMPS is based on a composite right/left handed meta-material (CRLH MTM) transmission line approach. L-C networks were used to achieve zero phase shift at a specified frequency. The proposed design combines the advantages of an accurate zero phase shift using meta-material concepts and the advantages of passive components (capacitors and inductors) embedded inside LTCC to reduce device size, weight, and cost. The designed phase shifter provides an accurate 0o phase shift at 0.73 GHz with −16.7 dB return-loss and −0.31 dB insertion-loss at the center frequency. The paper also provides a comparison between BST and BZT as dielectric materials embedded inside LTCC with respect to the preparation process and shrinking effects.