What is the best way to optimize lumped-element RF antenna balun two port network analyzer? S21 and S31 have to be -3 dB.
I have a circuitry that looks more or less like this one.
Current Attempt #1:
Port 1 of NA connected to Number 1 in the schematic above. Port 2 of NA connected to Number 2 in the schematic above.
Number 3 in the schematic is terminated with 50 Ohm 0201 size SMD component.
Tune L to get S21 of -3 dB
In Attempt #1, I managed to get S21 of around -3 dB.
However, when I terminate Number 2 (schematic) with 50 Ohm and port 2 of NA to Number 3 (schematic) to measure S31, I got -9 dB. This is where the problem comes in.
What are the methods that people typically use to optimize lumped-element RF antenna balun two port network analyzer?
Feel free to correct me if attempt #1 is wrong.
To make a balun, the arms must generate opposite phase shift, e.g. high pass/low pass. Besides ideal -3dB gain, you also need 180° differential phase. Deviation between ideal circuit and actual implementation is often caused by parasitic elements like trace inductance. If you consider this elements in your model, you can achieve better matching. Verification and optional adjustment using NA is nevertheless recommended.
you have to be very specific about what you mean by S21, and S31.
Are you just trying to make an in-phase power splitter, with two 50 ohm output impedances?
Are you trying to make a true balun, where the "R" is a 100 ohm differential resistance?
Are you trying to get other than a 50 ohm single ended, or 100 ohm differential output impedance?
you have to be very specific about what you mean by S21, and S31.
Are you just trying to make an in-phase power splitter, with two 50 ohm output impedances?
Are you trying to make a true balun, where the "R" is a 100 ohm differential resistance?
Are you trying to get other than a 50 ohm single ended, or 100 ohm differential output impedance?
1. Phase difference requirement is 180 degree between 2 arms. Magnitude difference requirement is 0 dB between 2 arms.
2. No
3. 50 ohm on each number 1, 2 and 3 (refer to the schematic)
You have also to check the Phase, not only Magnitude..
In fact, you schematic does not provide 180 Degree because of Capacitor and Resistance at input/output.They will imbalance the circuit.
If you do a well calibration in term of magnitude and phase both, you will see accurately the phase difference.
The best method is to use 4-Port VNA, you can tune it very precisely.
Before testing with VNA, Irecommend you to simulate your board in Momentum with all possible parasitic components.Using ideal Caps. and Inductors will not give you a consistent result.