Propagation Parameters of Coupled Microstrip-Like Transmission Lines for Millimeter-Wave Applications

A variational expression is derived for the propagation parameters of coupled microstrip-like transmission lines for millimeter-wave applications using the "transverse transmission line" method. Numerical results are presented for the coupled inverted microstrip lines, and for the coupled suspended microstrip lines. The effects of the top and sidewalls and also of the finite thickness of strip conductors on the even- and odd-mode impedances are studied. The use of a dielectric overlay in equalizing the even- and odd-mode phase velocities is investigated.