Low loss, contactless microwave transition for phased array elements

This paper describes the operation and design of a very low loss, contactless, right angle microstrip transition. The transition removes the need for coaxial interconnects and the absence of mechanical contact provides the potential reliability for improved vibration. The printed construction makes it cheap to manufacture. The detailed design philosophy and subsequent measured and modelled results are addressed. The transition was developed for active phased arrays but has a wider application