Non-contact probes for characterization of THz devices and components

We investigate through numerical simulation the coupling properties of a novel, AC-coupled, contact-free probe. The new probe couples radiation from a CPW-embedded device-under-test via polarization current, which is then transformed to conduction current in the probe and down-converted in frequency to baseband by an optically-pumped photomixer. Numerous simulations have been realized in order to understand and improve the behavior of the probe. Here, we present the most interesting results: the use of a symmetric side coupled coplanar waveguide and a broadband design showing promising performance up to 1300 GHz with an operating range of 1 THz.