Compact RGW Differential Phase Shifter for Millimeter-Wave Applications

Abstract

Millimeter wave systems are in a growing need for compact size phased antenna arrays, hence, compact phase shifters, as well. In addition, there are other numerous applications like isolators, filters, and couplers that deploy the phase shifter as an essential component. To implement the proposed phase shifter the Ridge Gap Waveguide (RGW) structure is selected. RGW technology has the advantage of wideband operation over other technologies. Moreover, RGW structures have lower losses and better performance in the millimeter wave band. This work introduces a new RGW structure that deploys ferrite slabs to make a differential phase shifter with very compact size and ultra-flat phase. The proposed non-reciprocal 90° differential phase shifter has less than 10° of phase variations over the operating band.