Simplified tape-helix analysis of planar helix slow-wave structure using effective dielectric constant method

Tape-helix analysis is presented for dispersion characteristics of a planar helix slow-wave structure with straight-edge connections. The analysis is simplified in a novel way by using the effective dielectric constant method, which avoids the application of boundary conditions for side connections. The results obtained from analysis show a good match with simulation results. The simplified analysis also provides more accurate results than the previously reported results for the rectangular helix based on tape-helix analysis.