A Dielectric Resonator Method of Measuring Inductive Capacities in the Millimeter Range

A novel technique for the measurement of dielectric and magnetic properties of a homogeneous isotropic medium in the range of approximately 3 to 100 kmc is described. An accuracy of /l.chemc/ 1 per cent is possible in the determination of permittivity or permeability in those cases where the loss tangent is sulliciently small. The measuring structure is a resonator made up of a right circular cyndrical dielectric rod placed between two parallel conducting plates. For measurement of permittivity two or more resonant TE/sub onl/ mode frequencies are determined whereas for the measurement of permeability two or more resonant TM/sub onl/ mode frequencies are determined. The dielectric or magnetic properties are computed from the resonance frequencies, structure dimensions, and unloaded Q. Since the loss tangent is inversely proportional to the unloaded Q of the structure, the precision to which Q is measured determines the accuracy of the loss tangent.