An asymmetrical 60–90 GHz single-pole double throw switch MMIC

We present the design and performance of a state-of-the-art broadband (60 to 90 GHz, 40%) millimeter-wave FET asymmetrical switch, realized in a metamorphic high electron mobility transistor (mHEMT) technology. The switch is dedicated to wireless communication or radiometry applications. It makes use of a single control voltage which simultaneously toggles between states. The two signal paths are asymmetrical, one using a series FET, the other a shunt-FET, and exhibit insertion losses of 2.8 and 1.7 dB, respectively. Broadband operation is achieved by introduction of matching stubs at each switch branch input.