Theoretical and experimental characterization of integrated millimeter wave structures

A rigorous theoretical approach is used to characterize quasi-planar transmission lines for millimeter-wave applications. The method takes into account the finite metallization thickness and the presence of grooves for holding the substrate into the housing. An experimental method that allows the characterization of the structures in terms of dominant and higher order modes by a single broadband transmission measurement is considered. Experiments performed on an experimental transmission line consisting of a coplanar waveguide inserted into a nonsymmetrical housing are discussed. This structure offers some advantages over finlines and suspended striplines. Experiments have been performed in the 0.5-15.0 GHz range and are in excellent agreement with theoretical predictions