Computer-Aided Small-Signal Characterization of IMPATT Diodes

The use of a general purpose digital computer to convert microwave impedance measurement data to useful forms and simultaneously correct for system errors was described in an earlier paper. The method is applied to the small-signal characterization of germanium IMPATT diodes in the frequency range of 2.0 to 8.0 GHz in this paper. Since the equivalent circuit of the IMPATT diode is at least as complicated as equivalent circuits for other types of microwave diodes, the techniques demonstrated can easily be applied to other types of diodes.