Question
What is microstrip?
Answer Options
- A) Special shielding material designed for microwave frequencies
- B) Miniature coax used for low power applications
- C) Short lengths of coax mounted on printed circuit boards to minimize time delay between microwave circuits
- D) Precision printed circuit conductors above a ground plane that provide constant impedance interconnects at microwave frequencies
Correct Answer: D
Explanation
At microwave frequencies, the wiring between components must be treated as transmission lines to manage impedance, standing waves, and parasitic effects. Microstrip is the most common form of planar transmission line used on circuit boards.
Microstrip is defined as precision printed circuit conductors above a ground plane that provide constant impedance interconnects at microwave frequencies. The width of the conductor and the thickness of the dielectric are precisely controlled to create a specific characteristic impedance (usually 50 \Omega). This allows components like \text{MMICs} and filters to be connected without impedance discontinuities.
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