Improved coupled-microstrip filter design using effective even-mode and odd-mode characteristic impedances

The transmission zeros of two coupled-microstrip circuits are studied in this research. Estimates for the frequencies of transmission zeros are given. A new concept of effective even- and odd-mode characteristic impedances is introduced. Useful design equations are given for improving the passband responses that are inherently distorted by different mode velocities. Finally, two filters with different topologies are designed for their zeros to be at the frequencies of the spurious harmonics and, thus, yield wide out-of-band rejections.