High Dynamic Range Video Detector

A design technique yielding high dynamic range video, detectors is described. Increased power handling capability is gained by combining multiple detector diodes utilizing a distributed element design approach for the impedance matching structure. Bandwidth ratios greater than 10:1 with upper passband extremes to 40GHz are realizable. VSWR of less than, 2:1 has been realized covering the entire dynamic range of the detector which extends to in excess of +10dBm incident power level. The video detector is comprised of an artificial transmission line wherein the shunt capacitive elements are spaced semiconductor detector diodes and the interconnecting bonds form the series elements.