RF MEMS phase shifters: design and applications | IEEE Journals & Magazine | IEEE Xplore

RF MEMS phase shifters: design and applications


Abstract:

Recent results obtained with MEMS phase shifters demonstrate that their performance is much better than GaAs phase shifters using either standard (switched-line, reflect-...Show More

Abstract:

Recent results obtained with MEMS phase shifters demonstrate that their performance is much better than GaAs phase shifters using either standard (switched-line, reflect-line) or distributed designs. The reliability of MEMS phase shifters is worse than of single switches since they employ 8-16 MEMS switches and do not tolerate a failure in any of the switches. On the other hand, a large phased array will still function properly, albeit with a slightly decreased efficiency and higher sidelobes if 3-4% of the phase shifters fail. Currently, the failure mechanisms of MEMS switches are being investigated and will greatly benefit the reliability of MEMS phase shifters. Also, the hermetic packaging of MEMS phase shifters is not straightforward, due to their relatively large size. It is for these reasons that the authors believe that MEMS phase shifters will be mostly used in satellite and defense applications in the next five years.
Published in: IEEE Microwave Magazine ( Volume: 3, Issue: 2, June 2002)
Page(s): 72 - 81
Date of Publication: 30 June 2002

ISSN Information:


Contact IEEE to Subscribe

References

References is not available for this document.