Search

A novel "line-line" (LL) method is generalized to determine forward and backward propagation constants (γ + and γ −) and wave impedances (Z + and Z −) of non-reciprocal networks/lines. It considers a reference network/line with any propagation constant, impedance, and length for this goal. A theoretical analysis is carried out to examine under which circumstance wave impedance together with propagation constant can be determined by the new general LL method. Measurements of γ + , γ − , Z + , and Z − of a microwave phase shifter (a nonreciprocal network) are conducted to validate our proposed method and examine its accuracy, through normalized root-mean-square and goodness of fit values, using uncalibrated scattering parameter measurements. • Full characterization of a non-reciprocal network is accomplished. • A general line-line method is used for propagation constant and impedance measurement. • Non-reciprocal network impedance can be found using a reference network with different reflections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A general "line-line" (LL) method is proposed for propagation constant determination (γ + and γ −) of nonreciprocal networks using multiple reference networks. The new formalism provides flexibility in implementation of LL methods so that not only more accurate γ + (and γ −) could be retrieved but also the effect of inaccurate length information of the non-reciprocal network on γ + (and γ −) evaluation could be suppressed. For validation of the method, γ + and γ − of a microwave phase shifter (a nonreciprocal network) are determined using uncalibrated scattering parameter measurements at X-band (8.2–12.4 GHz). Two different statistical analyses based on normalized root-mean-square-error and goodness of fit and based on coefficient of variation and confidence interval are individually performed to evaluate the performance and accuracy of our method. • A new methodology is proposed to evaluate propagation constant of non-reciprocal networks. • It has the capability of improving the measurement accuracy (reducing the uncertainties). • It can reduce the effect of inaccurate length information of non-reciprocal line/networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]