A novel N-port series divider using infinite wavelength phenomena

A novel N-port series divider based on a composite right/left-handed (CRLH) transmission line (TL) supporting a wave with an infinite wavelength is presented. This novel divider evenly divides power in phase to an infinite number of ports at its infinite wavelength frequency. In addition, it is shown that the novel series divider´s performance is not dependent on the location of its output ports. The basic operating principle is based on the fact that a CRLH TL is able to support a wave with an infinite wavelength. As a result, all points along the CRLH TL have the same magnitude and phase. A 3-port series divider consisting of a 8 unit-cell CRLH TL is shown to exhibit 0.22 dB maximum magnitude difference and 1.32° maximum phase difference between output ports at its infinite wavelength frequency. In addition, a 5-port series divider consisting of a 13 unit-cell CRLH TL is fabricated and shown to exhibit 0.30 dB maximum magnitude difference and 6.3° maximum phase difference between output ports at its infinite wavelength frequency. Both simulation and experimental results are shown to support the authors´ claims.