Optimum Design of 3-Db Branch-Line Couplers Using Microstrip Lines

A computer-aided design is described that makes it possible to reduce the internal impedance levels of branch-line couplers so that they may be physically constructed by microstrip lines, where the Fletcher-Powell search method has been used to optimize the design. Because microstrip lines are severely restricted in their usable impedance range, the 3-dB couplers presented here should be useful for numerous balanced-type components such as balanced mixers. The validity of the design has been experimentally verified in the microwave and millimeter-wave region.