Semiconductor and circuit modelling methods for next generation RF protection devices

Microwave communication systems have a variety of uses in all aspects of global life. Consider, as an example, a radar receiver. The receiver must be able to detect weak electromagnetic radiation and yet be protected from damage if there is a very large incoming signal. To meet these contradictory requirements, devices known as receiver protectors are installed in front of the receiver. These are designed to allow small signals through but to reflect large signals.

Microwave communication systems contain very sensitive components that can be damaged by incident electromagnetic (EM) fields, so installing devices such as receiver protectors is paramount to their needs. Current modelling techniques for these receiver protection devices are incapable of providing sufficiently accurate data at all frequencies of interest to ensure satisfactory protection levels, thus advancements need to be made.

The overall aim of the project is to improve the simulation technologies available for the design of GHz systems. One part of the project will measure existing receiver protectors and characterize both their mechanical construction and their RF performance. These measurements will then be compared to simulations of the receiver protectors using existing simulation technologies - any differences between the simulations and experiment will be quantified. The project will then seek to improve the simulation of such devices using cutting edge electromagnetic and device simulation techniques being developed by the Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham.