Lossy Filter Synthesis

Abstract

All telecommunication systems, such as cellular mobile networks (cellphones), object-detection systems (radars), and navigation systems that include satellite positioning systems (GPS), base their functioning on radio wave radiation with pre-defined frequencies and thus require a microwave filter to select the most appropriate frequencies. Generally speaking, the more highly-selective a filter is, the less non-useful frequencies and interference it picks up. Recent advances in microwave instruments, semiconductors, fabrication technologies and microwave filters applications have ushered in a new era in performance but have also brought significant challenges, such as keeping fabrication costs low, miniaturizing, and making low-profile devices. These challenges must be met while at the same time maintaining the performance of conventional devices. The thesis proposes use of lossy filter concepts to maintain high quality filtering frequency response flatness and selectivity regardless of the filter’s physical size. The method is applied to lumped element filters. It introduces resistances to the physical structure of the filter and hence a certain amount of loss to the frequency response of the filter. The lossy filter synthesis is based on the coupling matrix mode. The thesis also proposes modifications to the traditional lossy filter design techniques, to improve the filter performance in the stopband.