Novel microstrip multifunction directional couplers and filters for microwave and millimeter-wave applications

The design of a particular class of microstrip couplers and filters is presented. The synthesis functions obtained from the solution of first-order nonlinear differential equation of nonuniform lines with a loose coupling assumption are modified and validated for higher coupling values. The design employs a nonuniform coupled line configuration along which a realizable continuous coupling coefficient is obtained by modifying the reflection coefficient distribution function. This modification results in a frequency-selective coupling which minimizes the out-of-band coupling in the specified frequency range. As a result, it is possible to realize -3 dB directional couplers using double-coupled lines without the need for tandem connections or extreme photolithographic techniques. Experimental results for microwave band-pass and periodic couplers are presented together with the computed results. Potential applications of these components are discussed, and the work is extended to include millimeter-wave realization.>