Performance of 2-18 GHz RF Switches Implemented in Chip & Wire Technology : Analysis of switch topologies, bias networks and an in-depth EM analysis of bondwires

Abstract: The ability to control the path a signal takes through microwave circuitry is crucial when designing RF systems. The component that allows for the control of the signal path is called a switch, and it is the microwave component that this thesis will focus on. Switches are widely used in the growing defense and space industries, both of which have strict requirements on their systems. This thesis aims to investigate four switch topologies and compare them to establish which topology is most suitable in high-performance systems where high isolation and wide bandwidths are essential parameters. The different topologies were simulated using Cadence AWR Microwave Studio to evaluate the parameters of interest. Built-in models for PIN diodes were employed to capture the nonlinear nature of the diodes and quantify the linearity of the switches. Measurements of PIN diodes using a spectrum analyzer and a vector network analyzer were used to confirm that the models of the PIN diode resembled the actual characteristics of PIN diodes. Out of the four topologies investigated, the series, shunt, series-shunt and double shunt, it was concluded that the series-shunt topology was most suitable for wideband multiple-throw switches. The double shunt topology was more suitable for SPST switches and narrowband SPDT switches. From this thesis, it will be possible to conclude which topology is most suitable for a particular need and what key design parameters will impact the switch’s performance.