Suspended substrate stripline filter design with hybrid EM simulation tools

In this paper, we present a practical design methodology for suspended substrate stripline (SSS) filters. The process of transforming the electrical parameters to physical parameters involves the use of simulation packages such as HP Eesof and Sonnet. Once the physical parameters are determined, various approaches can be taken to simulate the final filter response. We outline only two approaches and make recommendations as to which approach is more efficient based on the results and time required for simulation. We verify this design approach using a bandpass filter example by comparing results obtained from simulation and measurement. We also discuss general issues involved in the selection process for this type of filter-in other words, choosing the right filter for the right job.