Component modeling for PCB design

The increasing number of wireless applications have created the need for useful models that promote RF circuit design on modern PCB materials for frequencies below 3 GHz. Accurate models minimize the amount of physical tuning and rework after an RF design has been fabricated. A PCB was developed that allows the full characterization of various case size (0402, 0603, 0805, 1206) capacitors and inductors, microstrip and coplanar lines and tee junctions, ground vias, coupled lines, edge connector transitions, and filters. For simplicity, only the capacitor and inductor models are presented. Results from a high-pass filter design are presented as validation of the calibration and model accuracy.