Coplanar waveguide basics for MMIC and PCB design

In this article, basic CPW design information geared towards a practicing microwave circuit designer, including the applicability and benefits of CPW transmission line configuration, design and modeling tips, and two microphotographs of implemented CPW MMIC amplifiers are provided. Supported by the CPW geometry (coupled slotline) and modes that can occur for practical implementation of CPW (parallel-plate waveguide mode). CPW has a significant number of applications in microwave design, and we hope this brief tutorial will provide enough of an introduction to aid designers in beginning CPW design.