Design and Preparation of Compact 3-Bit Reconfigurable RF MEMS Attenuators for Millimeter-Wave Bands
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: As a core functional device in microwave systems, attenuators play a crucial role in key aspects such as signal power regulation, amplitude attenuation, and impedance matching. Addressing the pressing technical issues currently exposed by attenuators in practical applications, such as excessive insertion loss, low attenuation accuracy, large physical dimensions, and insufficient process reliability, this paper proposes a design scheme for an RF three-bit reconfigurable stepped attenuator based on radio frequency micro-electromechanical systems (RF MEMS) switches. The attenuator employs planar integration of the T-type attenuation network, Coplanar Waveguide (CPW), Y-shaped power divider, and RF MEMS switches. While ensuring rational power distribution and stable attenuation performance over the full bandwidth, it reduces the number of switches to suppress parasitic parameters, thereby enhancing process feasibility. Test results confirm that this device demonstrates significant advancements in attenuation accuracy, achieving a precision of 1.18 dB across the 0–25 dB operational range from DC to 20 GHz, with insertion loss kept below 1.65 dB and return loss exceeding 12.15 dB. Additionally, the device boasts a compact size of merely 0.66 mm × 1.38 mm × 0.32 mm, significantly smaller than analogous products documented in existing literature. Meanwhile, its service life approaches 5 × 107 cycles. Together, these two attributes validate the device’s performance reliability and miniaturization advantages.
Source: Micromachines
DOI: 10.3390/mi16101117
Institution: North University of China
Language: English
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,534
Funder: North University of China
OpenAlex ID: W4414671626