Computer analysis of slow-wave circuits with shaped dielectric loading

The properties of slow-wave circuits are affected by the configuration of the dielectric loading. The phase velocity and the impedance are functions of the relative dielectric loadinq from each bar (of a bar-type circuit) or each turn (of a helix) to ground, and the dielectric loading from bar to bar or turn to turn. Static field solutions are found for phase shift per circuit element of zero and π. Results for intermediate phase shift are found by a linear combination of these solutions. Appropriate boundary conditions are introduced to apply these solutions to various slow-wave circuits. Computed and experimental results for meander, composite helix, and T-helix circuits are presented.