An S band low cost 6-bit PIN diode phase shifter

In this study a low-cost 6-bit P-I-N phase shifter with fast switching time, low RF attenuation variation over phase change, and low switching power is described. These unique characteristics make it ideal for S band beam steering applications. The circuit made in microstrip line, consists of six cells in cascade, giving phase shifts of 5.625, 11.25, 22.5, 45, 90, and 180^o, respectively. Each section consists of a 3dB coupler loaded by phase shifting networks. Novel phase shifting networks result in a wide bandwidth, low loss and, ultra low phase error.