Wide Operating Bandwidth Research Articles

Advanced, Real-Time Programmable FPGA-Based Digital Filtering Unit for IR Detection Modules

This paper presents a programmable digital filtering unit dedicated to operating with signals from infrared (IR) detection modules. The designed device is quite useful for increasing the signal-to-noise ratio due to the reduction in noise and interference from detector–amplifier circuits or external radiation sources. Moreover, the developed device is flexible due to the possibility of programming the desired filter types and their responses. In the circuit, an advanced field-programmable gate array FPGA chip was used to ensure an adequate number of resources that are necessary to implement an effective filtration process. The proposed circuity was assisted by a 32-bit microcontroller to perform controlling functions and could operate at frequency sampling of up to 40 MSa/s with 16-bit resolution. In addition, in our application, the sampling frequency decimation enabled obtaining relatively narrow passband characteristics also in the low frequency range. The filtered signal was available in real time at the digital-to-analog converter output. In the paper, we showed results of simulations and real measurements of filters implementation in the FPGA device. Moreover, we also presented a practical application of the proposed circuit in cooperation with an InAsSb mid-IR detector module, where its self-noise was effectively reduced. The presented device can be regarded as an attractive alternative to the lock-in technique, artificial intelligence algorithms, or wavelet transform in applications where their use is impossible or problematic. Comparing the presented device with the previous proposal, a higher signal-to-noise ratio improvement and wider bandwidth of operation were obtained.

Development model of a high-performance multiple input multiple output microstrip antenna based on a planar series array with 8×2 elements for 5G communication systems

MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) makes a major contribution to 5G communication systems by increasing network capacity and spectrum efficiency. In 5G, MIMO enables the use of multiple antennas at base stations and user devices, allowing simultaneous sending and receiving of data over multiple paths. This significantly increases data throughput and connection reliability, especially in environments with high user density. In addition, MIMO technology supports the implementation of beamforming, which focuses signals on a specific direction, reduces interference, and improves signal coverage and quality, making it one of the keys to achieving faster and more responsive 5G performance. Therefore, antennas with wide bandwidth, high gain and MIMO performance are crucial for supporting 5G communication systems. This paper proposes a high-performance MIMO microstrip antenna based on a series planar array with 8×2 elements operating at a resonant frequency of 3.5 GHz for 5G communication systems. A spiral stub and a feed inset are proposed to control the reflection coefficient and bandwidth of the antenna while the series planar array is proposed to increase the gain. To support the MIMO communication system, the proposed antenna is separated into two different ports with a certain distance. From the measurement results, the proposed antenna has high performance indicated by a wide bandwidth of 680 MHz (3–3.68 GHz) and a high gain of 17.8 dB at a resonant frequency of 3.5 GHz. In addition, the proposed antenna has high mutual coupling and diversity indicated by ECC and DG of 0.001 and 9.99 dB, respectively. This work provides a solution to design a high-performance microstrip antenna and can be implemented as a receiving antenna for 5G communication systems

High-precision dynamic axial clearance measurement method based on an all-fiber heterodyne microwave-AMCW with an all-phase tracking algorithm

Rotor-stator axial clearance is critical to the safety and efficiency of major rotating machinery. However, factors such as high-speed rotation, narrow space, high temperature, and vibration present significant challenges for high-precision dynamic measurement of axial clearance. This paper proposes an axial clearance measurement method based on an all-fiber heterodyne microwave amplitude-modulated continuous wave (microwave-AMCW) system combined with an all-phase tracking algorithm, characterized by high precision, wide bandwidth, and a large measurement range. To mitigate environmental influences, a heterodyne all-fiber microwave-AMCW optical path structure is developed, and a compact dual-core fiber sensor probe is designed. The all-phase tracking algorithm is introduced to enhance dynamic precision and expand bandwidth. Additionally, what we believe to be a novel bandwidth test method based on time division multiplexing is proposed to evaluate the system's wide-bandwidth performance. The proposed system's performance is validated through simulations and experiments. The results demonstrate that the system exhibits excellent resistance to environmental interference, with a measurement range up to 24.5 mm and a static precision better than 4.5µm. Dynamic experiments further confirm the algorithm's effectiveness, achieving a precision better than 5.3µm at 100kHz bandwidth. Compared to other clearance measurement algorithms including the Hilbert transform and FFT, the proposed method reduces dynamic error by over 74%.

Advanced Metamaterial-Integrated Dipole Array Antenna for Enhanced Gain in 5G Millimeter-Wave Bands

A metamaterial-based non-uniform dipole array antenna is presented for high gain 5G millimeter-wave applications with a wideband characteristic. Initially, a non-uniform dipole array is designed on a 0.202 mm thick Rogers RO4003C substrate, offering a wide operating bandwidth ranging from 23.1 GHz to 44.8 GHz. The dipole array antenna emits unidirectional end-fire radiation with a maximum gain of 8.1 dBi and an average gain of 6.7 dBi. Subsequently, to achieve high gain performance, a 5 × 7 metamaterial structure is designed in the direction of the antenna radiation. The implemented metamaterial structure is optimized for the operating frequency, enhancing the directivity of the antenna radiation and resulting in a gain increment of more than 3 dBi compared to the dipole array alone. The developed metamaterial-integrated dipole array antenna offers an operating bandwidth (S11 < −10 dB) of more than 21 GHz (63.92%), ranging from 23.1 GHz to 44.8 GHz, covering the most commonly used 5G millimeter-wave frequency bands (n257, n258, n259, n260, and n261). Furthermore, the presented antenna yields a stable high gain with a peak gain of 11.21 dBi and a good radiation efficiency of more than 64%. The proposed antenna is an excellent option for millimeter-wave 5G systems due to its overall properties, particularly its high gain and end-fire radiation characteristics, combined with a wide operating bandwidth.

A novel output window for dual-band gyrotron amplifier

Abstract As a high-frequency, high-power, and high-bandwidth microwave source, the gyrotron amplifier has good application prospects in the aerospace field. The microwave window is of great significance for the high-frequency characteristics, power capacity, lifespan, and reliability of the gyrotron amplifier. This paper introduces a novel double-disk sapphire output window, which has excellent mechanical strength, high-temperature resistance, and high power capacity. The transmission coefficient S21 of TE01 mode is greater than −1 dB in 8.29 GHz∼9.73 GHz, and the S21 of TE02 mode is greater than −1 dB in 16.33 GHz −17.8 GHz, which can ensure wide bandwidth operation of high microwave transmission in X and Ku bands. It solves the problem of using one port to achieve microwave output in two bands for dual-band gyrotron amplifiers.

A wideband flexible antenna utilizing PMMA/PVDF‐HFP/PZT polymer composite film and silver‐based conductive ink for wearable applications

AbstractThe relentless drive towards miniaturization and seamless integration of electronic components in wireless communications and wearable devices has significantly increased the demand for flexible, cost‐effective composites with high dielectric constants and low losses. This study presents a wideband, low‐profile, and flexible antenna with excellent on body radiation performance for wearable applications. The antenna is designed using a low‐loss composite film based on PMMA‐PVDF‐HFP‐PZT and silver‐based ink. The proposed flexible antenna exhibits a wide bandwidth of 132.16% with a voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) of less than two. It achieves a peak gain of 2.76 dBi at 2.92 GHz and maintains a maximum radiation efficiency of 80% across the 1.26–6.17 GHz frequency range. These characteristics demonstrate that the antenna is an effective solution for achieving high data rates and reliable communication links. The antenna's suitability for wearable applications is assessed by testing it on a simulated human body and analyzing its behavior under physical deformation. The results under bending showed only a minimal frequency detuning, which is negligible given the antenna's wide operational bandwidth. The specific absorption rate (SAR) analysis shows values of approximately 1.88 W/kg at 3.5 GHz with an input power of 0.5 W, and 0.279 W/kg at 5.8 GHz with an input power of 0.45 W, which complies with established safety limits for exposure. Overall, these results suggest that the proposed antenna is a viable solution for integration into wearable medical devices, such as a doctor's chest badge, enabling noncontact interactions and reducing the risk of bacterial contamination.

A millimeter‐wave ultra‐wideband triplexer with high isolation and high power

AbstractThis paper provides a compact, noncontiguous, high isolation, manifold triplexer operating from 25.8 to 49.5 GHz, a 62.95% wide fractional operating bandwidth. The triplexer is composed of three waveguide bandpass filters with Chebyshev responses. The initialization and loop optimization strategy of the triplexer are given. To eliminate undesired high‐order mode transmission between common port and filters, ridged‐waveguide topology, tuning screws, capacitive windows, and narrowing the wide edges of resonant cavities for the third filter are employed. The measured results and simulated ones are in good agreement. To our knowledge, this is the most broadband, high‐power triplexer demonstrated to date.

A Broadband MS-Based Circularly Polarized Antenna Array Using Sequential-Phase Feeding Network.

This paper introduces the design of a circularly polarized metasurface-based antenna array for C-band satellite applications that owns broadband operation and high gain characteristics. The single radiating element comprises a Y-shape patch and an above-placed 2 × 2 unit-cell metasurface. Further improvement in operating bandwidth and broadside gain is achieved by arranging four single elements in a 2 × 2 configuration and a sequential-phase feed network. A prototype has been fabricated and measured to validate the feasibility of the proposed antenna array. The measured operating bandwidth is 20% (4.50-5.50 GHz), which is an overlap between a -10 dB impedance bandwidth of 29.8% (4.50-5.99 GHz) and a 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth of 20% (4.50-5.50 GHz). Across this operating band, the peak broadside gain is 10.5 dBi. Compared with the recently published studies, the proposed array is a prominent design for producing a wide operating bandwidth and relatively high gains while maintaining the overall compact dimensions.

Coupled and radiated microwave sensors for vital signs and lung water level monitoring

This paper presents a novel approach for non-invasive monitoring of vital signs (heart rate (HR), respiration rate (RR)) and lung water levels using ultra-wideband (UWB) microwave sensors. The primary contribution of this study is the development and testing of two different sensor technologies to enhance the penetration and monitoring capabilities of electromagnetic waves within the human body. The first sensor technology employs a radiated UWB microwave that can be integrated into textiles, operating within a frequency range of 1.5 to 10 GHz, providing flexibility and comfort for wearable health monitoring. The second sensor technology involves using body-coupled UWB non-radiating sensors with a wide operational bandwidth from 1.3 to 10 GHz and a stable feeding structure, ensuring efficient reflection and transmission of waves for accurate monitoring. The shapes of flexible and textile UWB electromagnetic microwave sensor radiators and couplers, along with the measurement procedure, are tested in human clinical studies. The sensor-specific absorption rate (SAR) is evaluated at two distinct resonant frequencies on tissue masses of 1 g and 10 g, aligning with the IEEE C95.3 standard to ensure adherence to standard thresholds of 1.6 W/kg and 2 W/kg, respectively. Additionally, a denoising scheme utilizing deep learning techniques is proposed to filter Base Line Wander (BLW) noise attributable to misplaced electrodes, skin impedance, poor skin preparation, patient movement, and breathing within the frequency range of 0.05 to 3 Hz. The postprocessing outcome demonstrates the superiority of couplers over radiating sensors.

Highly sensitive dual mode dual side cross polarization converter based biosensor

—This paper investigates a dual-side, dual-mode reflective cross-polarization converter for biosensing applications. The converter consists of a polyimide substrate with a modified dumbbell-shaped resonator on one surface and its complementary slot on another. The overall volume is 8.25μm × 8.25μm × 2.47 μm with dual-band operation of 6.39268–7.311692 THz and 9.783001–23.53473 THz for PCR≥80 % for front signal incidence and two full widths at half maximum (FWHM) bands i.e. 11.71594–12.26761 THz & 19.12042–19.87691 THz for back signal incidence. The periodicity is ∼λo/6, and substrate thickness is ∼λo/19 at 6.39268 THz. This device has performance stability for incident angle (θ)≤30o. The performance of this device can be tuned from dual-band operation to single-band by varying the chemical potential of the graphene strip for signal incidence from both sides. This device can classify cancer or tuberculosis-infected cells concerning healthy cells by using the variations in their corresponding refractive indices that lead to changes in the band edge frequencies. This device can differentiate between infected and healthy cells or different refractive indices with a high sensitivity of ∼5 THz/RIU. This device has merits of dual side sensing, wide operating bandwidth, multiple frequencies for sensing purposes, and high sensitivity over previously reported sensors.

Broadband terahertz modulation in symmetric gate-controlled graphene photonic crystals

Innovative research in terahertz (THz) communications is urgently needed to meet the evolving demands of the industry. In the past, the absence of optoelectronic devices made it difficult to control THz waves effectively. In this study, a symmetric gate-controlled graphene photonic crystal (PC) is proposed, which achieves a modulation depth (MD) of more than 99 %, an ultralow insertion loss (IL) of 0.08, and a wide operation bandwidth (BW) simultaneously. Additionally, even in graphene samples with low carrier mobilities, the high-performance MD can be achieved with acceptable IL in the broadband THz range. Furthermore, our proposed one-dimensional graphene PC system enhances manufacturing convenience. Through the adoption of the proposed symmetric structure, highly efficient THz communications can be achieved through photonic systems that utilize graphene.

Compact planar 28/60‐GHz wideband MIMO antenna for 5G‐enabled IoT devices

SummaryThis work presents a compact two‐element multi‐input‐multi‐output (MIMO) antenna for 5G‐enabled IoT devices. The antenna operates over a wide frequency range of 24.6 to 31.4 GHz (28‐GHz band) and 57.6 to 60.2 GHz (60‐GHz band). Each MIMO element consists of an inverted L‐shaped slotted radiator with a partial ground plane. The antenna offers a peak gain of 5.45 and 5.56 dBi across two operating bands. The minimum isolation between the two ports is −26.5 dB, reaching a maximum value of over −45 dB. The investigation of MIMO metrics like “envelope correlation coefficient (ECC),” “diversity gain (DG),” “mean effective gain (MEG),” “channel capacity loss (CCL),” and “total active reflection coefficient (TARC)” also show favorable characteristics. The antenna is fabricated on a 10 × 22 × 0.503 mm3 Rogers 5880 substrate. The experimental results are in close agreement with that of the simulation results. The distinguishing features of the proposed antenna such as its compact design, simple geometrical configuration, wide operating bandwidth, low ECC, and high isolation make it a strong candidate for 5G‐enabled IoT devices.

Design and Performance Analysis of Compact Printed Ridge Gap Waveguide Phase Shifters for Millimeter-Wave Systems.

This paper introduces compact Printed Ridge Gap Waveguide (PRGW) phase shifters tailored for millimeter-wave applications, with a focus on achieving wide operating bandwidth, and improved matching and phase balance compared to single-layer technology. This study proposes a unique approach to achieve the required phase shift in PRGW technology, which has not been previously explored. This study also introduces a novel analytical approach to calculate the cutoff frequency and propagation constant of the PRGW structure, a method not previously addressed. Furthermore, the utilization of multi-layer PRGW technology enables the realization of multi-layer beamforming networks without crossing, thereby supporting wideband operation in a compact size. The proposed design procedure enables the realization of various phase shift values ranging from 0∘ to 135∘ over a broad frequency bandwidth centered at 30 GHz. A 45-degree phase shifter is fabricated and tested, demonstrating a 10 GHz bandwidth (approximately 33% fractional bandwidth) from 25 GHz to 35 GHz. Throughout the operating bandwidth, the phase balance remains within 45 ± 5∘, with a deep matching level of -20 dB. The proposed phase shifter exhibits desirable characteristics, such as compactness, low loss, and low dispersion, making it a suitable choice for millimeter-wave applications, including beyond 5G (B5G) and 6G wireless communications.

Multi-wavelength and broadband plasmonic switching with V-shaped plasmonic nanostructures on a VO2 coated plasmonic substrate

In this paper, periodic arrays of identical V-shaped gold nanostructures and variable V-shaped gold nanostructures are designed on top of a gold-coated silicon dioxide (SiO2) substrate with a thin spacer layer of vanadium dioxide (VO2) to realize multi-wavelength and broadband plasmonic switches, respectively. The periodic array of identical V-shaped nanostructures (IVNSs) with small inter-particle separation leads to coupled interactions of the elementary plasmons of a V-shaped nanostructure (VNS), resulting in a hybridized plasmon response with two longitudinal plasmonic modes in the reflectance spectra of the proposed switches when the incident light is polarized in the x-direction. The x-direction is oriented along the axis that joins the V-junctions of all VNSs in one unit cell of the periodic array. On exposure to temperature, electric field, or optical stimulus, the VO2 layer transforms from its monoclinic semiconducting state to its rutile metallic state, leading to an overall change in the reflectance spectra obtained from the proposed nanostructures and resulting in an efficient multi-wavelength switching action. Finite difference time domain modelling is employed to demonstrate that an extinction ratio (ER) >12 dB at two wavelengths can be achieved by employing the proposed switches based on periodic arrays of IVNSs. Further, plasmonic switches based on variable V-shaped nanostructures—i.e. multiple VNSs with variable arm lengths in one unit cell of a periodic array—are proposed for broadband switching. In the broadband operation mode, we report an ER >5 dB over an operational wavelength range >1400 nm in the near-IR spectral range spanning over all optical communication bands, i.e. the O, E, S, C, L and U bands. Further, it is also demonstrated that the wavelength of operation for these switches can be tuned by varying the geometrical parameters of the proposed switches. These switches have the potential to be employed in communication networks where ultrasmall and ultrafast switches with multi-wavelength operation or switching over a wide operational bandwidth are inevitably required.

Lossless Phase‐Change Material Enabled Wideband High‐Efficiency Spatial Light Phase Modulation at Near‐Infrared

AbstractHigh‐efficiency spatial light phase modulation with wide operating bandwidth is highly significant yet challenging. Dynamic metasurfaces leveraging active materials with tunable optical response provide a promising solution. Current work is generally confronted with restricted operation bandwidth and diminished modulation efficiency, constrained by the limited tunable range and inherent absorption of active materials particular at optical frequency. Recently, the emergence of lossless phase‐change material Sb2Se3 has garnered widespread attention. Its unique characteristics, including near‐zero absorption at near‐infrared and a substantial refractive index contrast ≈0.93 during phase transition, enable the possibility of high‐performance spatial light modulation. Pioneering studies have validated the capability of lossless phase‐change metasurfaces for wavefront control, but are typically restricted to limited efficiency. Here, a hybrid phase‐change metasurface utilizing over‐coupled resonances supported by Sb2Se3 nanoholes is proposed. For the first time in optical frequency, high‐efficiency 4‐level phase modulation covering over π range is experimentally demonstrated with a sizable operating bandwidth of 42 nm and a minimum reflectance of exceeding 0.5. Leveraging optically driven localized phase‐transition technique, dynamic beam deflection is further demonstrated. The work validates the tremendous potential of phase‐change metasurfaces in achieving advanced spatial light control, signifying significant progress for the development and application of phase‐change photonic devices.

Dual-Core Photonic Crystal Fiber Polarization Beam Splitter Based on a Nematic Liquid Crystal with an Ultra-Short Length and Ultra-Wide Bandwidth

This paper presents a novel pentagonal structure dual-core photonic crystal fiber polarizing beam splitter (PS-DC-PCF PBS) filled with a nematic liquid crystal (NLC) in the central hole. Unlike previous designs with symmetric arrangements, the upper and lower halves of the structure have different air hole arrangements. The upper half consists of air holes arranged in a regular quadrilateral pattern, while the lower half features a regular hexagonal arrangement of air holes. By filling the central hole with birefringent liquid crystal, the birefringence of the structure is enhanced, reducing the coupling lengths along the x polarization and y polarization directions. The polarization properties, coupling characteristics, and the influence of different structural parameters on the extinction ratio of the polarizing beam splitter are analyzed using the full-vector finite element method. Simulation results demonstrate that the designed PS-DC-PCF PBS achieves a maximum extinction ratio (ER) of 72.94 dB with a splitting length of only 61.9 μm and a wide operating bandwidth of 423 nm (1.324–1.747 μm), covering most of the O, E, S, C, L, and U communication bands. It exhibits not only ultra-short splitting lengths and ultra-wide splitting bandwidth but also good manufacturing tolerances and anti-interference capabilities. The designed PS-DC-PCF PBS could provide crucial device support for future all-optical communication systems and has potential applications in fiber optic communication or fiber laser systems.

2D Graphene Oxide Films Expand Functionality of Photonic Chips.

On-chip integration of 2D materials with unique structures and properties endow integrated devices with new functionalities and improved performance. With high flexibility in ways to modify its properties and compatibility with integrated platforms, graphene oxide (GO) is an exceptionally attractive 2D material for hybrid integrated photonic chips. Here, by harnessing unique property changes induced by photothermal effects in 2D GO films, novel functionalities beyond the capability of photonic integrated circuits are demonstrated. These include all-optical control and tuning, optical power limiting, and nonreciprocal light transmission. The 2D layered GO films are integrated onto photonic chips with precise control of their thickness and size. Benefitting from the broadband optical response of 2D GO films, all three functionalities feature a very wide operational optical bandwidth. By fitting the experimental results with theory, the changes in GO film properties induced by the photothermal effects are analyzed, revealing interesting insights about the physics of 2D GO films. These results highlight the versatility of 2D GO films in implementing new functions for integrated photonic devices for a wide range of applications.

Photostimulated Pyrothermoelectric Coupling in Two-Dimensional Tin Monoselenide Enabling Zero-Biased Multimodal Transducers.

Despite the advancement of the Internet of Things (IoT) and portable devices, the development of zero-biased sensing systems for the dual detection of light and gases remains a challenge. As an emerging technology, direct energy conversion driven by intriguing physical properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials can be realized in nanodevices or a zero-biased integrated system. In this study, we unprecedentedly attempted to exploit the photostimulated pyrothermoelectric coupling of two-dimensional SnSe for use in zero-biased multimodal transducers for the dual detection of light and gases. We synthesized homogeneous, large-area 6 in SnSe multilayers via a rational synthetic route based on the thermal decomposition of a solution-processed single-source precursor. Zero-biased SnSe transducers for the dual monitoring of light and gases were realized by exploiting the synergistic coupling of the photostimulated pyroelectric and thermoelectric effects of SnSe. The extracted photoresponsivity at 532 nm and NO2 gas responsivity of the SnSe-based transducers corresponded to 1.07 × 10-6 A/W and 13263.6% at 0 V, respectively. To bring universal applicability of the zero-biased SnSe transducers, the wide operation bandwidth photoelectrical properties (visible to NIR) and dynamic current responses toward two NO2/NH3 gases were systematically evaluated.

Metasurface-based dual-sense circularly polarized antenna for MIMO/full-duplex applications.

This paper introduces a two-element antenna array with dual-sense circular polarization, wideband operation, and high isolation characteristics. The antenna consists of two conventional truncated corner patches and an extra layer of metasurface (MS) located above the radiating patches. The overall dimensions of the proposed antenna are 0.92 λ0 × 0.73 λ0 × 0.05 λ0 and the element spacings are 0.02 λ0 and 0.39 λ0 with respect to edge-to-edge and center-to-center spacings. For validation, measurements on a fabricated antenna prototype are carried out. The measured data demonstrate that the presented MS-based antenna has a wide operating bandwidth of 14.5% with high isolation of better than 26 dB. The excellent performance could be concluded from the results of the investigation, which indicates that the proposed MS-based antenna could be a good candidate for multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) and full-duplex applications.

A wideband inductorless LNA utilizing common-source noise-canceling and cascode configuration

The common-source noise-canceling (CSNC) and the gyrator are known for alleviating the trade-off between NF and S11 in wideband LNAs. Moreover, the departure of the input-matching stage and signal-amplifying stage in CSNC facilitates the design of the gyrator. Cascode configuration is exploited to boost the feedback gain, enhancing the gyrator-C effect and broadening the input-matching bandwidth. Therefore, large transistors can be used for noise reduction while maintaining a wide operating bandwidth. Post-layout simulation results in 40 nm CMOS technology show that the circuit achieves an NF of 1.37 dB–1.72 dB while maintaining a wide operation bandwidth of 100 MHz to 3.27 GHz. By contrast, the minimum NF achieved by previously published inductorless wideband LNAs is around 2 dB. Moreover, an S21 of 18.9 dB is obtained, making the design suitable for low NF receivers. Besides, the IIP3 (input third-order intercept point) of −7.1 dBm is obtained, and the circuit consumes 13.1 mW at a 1.2 V voltage supply. Being self-biased, the circuit core consumes only 0.0034 mm2 area.