Abstract: A.C. grounded termination networks having multi-octave bandwidth capacity are provided in printed rf circuit form (e.g., microstrip, stripline) by fabricating a distributed element network as a series of alternating resistor-conductor elements having different circuit parameters. The circuit parameters are computed using an "exhaustive search" procedure involving computer optimization of the chain matrix equivalent expression of the voltage reflection coefficient for the network.

Abstract: A printed broadband rf transmission line circuit is provided with a D.C. bias port in the form of a high impedance printed stub conductor connected between a ground point and the transmission line. Minimum attenuation of a broadband rf signal on the line is achieved by including in the transmission line a plurality of series-connected conductor segments having different line length and impedance values such that the transmission line and stub conductor configuration are tuned to provide a maximum voltage transmission coefficient across the D.C. bias port. The parameters for the series-connected transmission line segments and the stub conductor are selected by performing a computer optimization of the chain matrix equivalent expression of the voltage transmission coefficient for the series-connected transmission line segments together with the stub conductor.

Abstract: A printed rf circuit switchable step attenuator for frequencies in the Gigahertz range employs PIN diodes for switching a pi network in and out of a transmission line. The A.C. grounded terminations of the pi network are constructed through the use of low impedance, open end stubs, eliminating the need for plated over-edge ground connections. D.C. bias potential for controlling the switching diodes is coupled to the rf portion of the circuit by means including high impedance grounded stub conductors connected to the transmission line. To achieve broadband operation the admittance of the stub conductors is tuned out by configuring the transmission line as a series of differing line length and impedance sections which are arranged symmetrically with respect to the point of intersection between the grounded stub conductors and the line.