Characterization of Tunable Metamaterial Elements Using MEMS Switches

An experimental demonstration and analysis of a dual-state switchable magnetic metamaterial element in which the resonance excitation of the particle is controlled using an RF microelectromechanical (MEMS) switch is presented. By controlling the resonant properties of the individual ring, unit cells composed of such elements can be used to realize an effective dual-state switchable medium. Transmission and loss characteristics of the switchable element for two different switch topologies are compared. Experimental data shows that the MEMS switch allows for a switchable resonant particle with reasonably low losses.