An automated technique for post production tuning of microwave circuits

A computer-aided tuning technique has been developed which allows for full automation of the postproduction tuning of microwave circuits. It is applicable to linear as well as nonlinear circuits and provides for repeatability and reduced tuning cycle times. It is adaptable to many circuit response functions such as gain, power output, efficiency, and noise figure. An automated configuration for the technique which uses a laser and a robot has been established which results in additional benefits for the mass production of state-of-the-art microwave circuits at least cost. Data are provided for a single-stage L-band power amplifier tuned in the automated workstation and for a four-stage X-band amplifier tuned using the computer-aided approach.<>