Enhanced model for interacting step-discontinuities

A lumped equivalent circuit is proposed which can characterize both the interacting and the noninteracting cascaded step discontinuities in microstrip lines. The model is based on a dynamic approach, utilizes practically frequency-independent lumped elements, is very broadband, and is easy to implement in presently available commercial packages. This approach makes it possible to overcome the geometrical/frequency limitations or poor accuracy of presently available models. Experiments confirm the effectiveness of the proposed approach and suggest its usefulness in the design of microwave and millimeter-wave monolithic ICs.<<ETX>>