A review of the electromagnetic properties and the full-wave analysis of the guiding structures in MMIC

A general overview of the basic electromagnetic phenomena that govern the behavior of the guiding structures in microwave/millimeter-wave integrated circuits (MMICs) is presented. With emphasis on the microstrip lines, the authors discuss the general characteristics exhibited by these guiding structures, including the effect of dispersion and discontinuities. The purposes are to provide a general overview of the basic electromagnetic phenomena that govern the behavior of these strip lines and to provide a brief description of one of the most versatile analytical methods available for treating these structures. The role of electromagnetics is strongly intertwined with the optimal design of microwave/millimeter-wave integrated circuitry. Only through accurate modeling of the field behavior can the circuit response be properly predicted