Tapered distributed analogue tunable phase shifter with low insertion and return loss

Some improvements for distributed Schottky diode tunable phase shifters are carried out. First, near- and far-end sections are tapered to improve return loss. Then, to reduce device length, and the number of varactors, inductances are added in series with the varactors, leading to an improved C_max/C_min ratio. For a 360° tunable phase shifter working at 1 GHz, insertion losses are limited to 2.4 dB maximum. Return loss is better than 20 dB. The tapered sections allow a wide working frequency range, typically from 800 to 1200 MHz with the same characteristics: around 2.4 dB insertion losses, 20 dB return loss.