6. Microwave Dielectric Measurement

High-speed computer and communication systems rely on dielectric materials with low loss and temperature stability in the gigahertz (GHz) region. Ceramic resonators are used in a variety of filters and oscillators for cellular phone and satellite communications systems. Research and development efforts have focused on reducing the size and weight of these resonators by exploring new materials and processes.

The microwave measurement facility has an HP8510C network analyzer with a frequency range of 50 MHz to 26 GHz. The lab is also equipped with many resonant cavities and waveguide holders for making microwave dielectric measurements. The measurement technique dependent upon the dielectric properties, frequency range and sample geometry. Thin film testing station has recently been added to the microwave characterization facility.

Photo 1. Resonant post technique for dielectric

constant and loss measurement.

Figure 1. Microwave measurement of a stripline ring-resonator structure.

Figure2. Transmission data for ring resonator structure.