Novel Waveguide Connectors to Simplify Microwave and Millimeter-wave Component Packaging

In this paper, a novel field replaceable waveguide connector, which is similar to a field replaceable coaxial connector, is described. For three popular frequency bands, Ka, Q and U, waveguide connectors are simulated, designed, and fabricated for component integration. The concept is applicable to a wide range of waveguide frequency bands where glass beads are available for standard RF feedthroughs, reaching as high as 110 GHz in WR-10. Prototypes and initial production data have shown full waveguide band coverage, with RF performance comparable to that of coaxial connectors. The waveguide connectors can be used as drop-in replacements for coaxial connectors found in many existing RF component packages where the waveguide interface is desired.