SPDT RF Switch For WiMAX Application

SPDT RF Switch for WiMAX Application
Mohd Amirruddin Bin Abd Halim
041130138
4P-EL11-Z
Project report submitted as part fulfilment for the degree of

Bachelor of Technology (Honours) in Electronics
School of Science and Technology

Wawasan Open University
April 2016 of submission

SPDT RF
Switch for
WiMAX
Application
Mohd Amirruddin Abd Halim 041130138
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I would like to express my thankful to my project supervisor, Mr, Anuar

Faizd Osman (Senior R&D Engineer) for his encourage to giving advice and
support in this project. I am fortunate to have him as my supervisor as he
lead me on how to design, personal coaching to use the EDA (Electronic
Design Automation) software tool in designing and share his experience to
lead this project success.
Besides, I would like to thank my colleague at Keysight Technologies

who are giving support to help from software, material, process, setup test
station and test measurement to DUT. They are Mr Amir (APTE IV), Mr Fauzi
(APTE III), Mr Hafiz (Process Engineer), Mr Asrul (APTE III), and Mr
Nasruddin (Material Engineer). Also, I would like to express my thanks to my
boss Mr Koh Boon Thai (Test & Operation Manager) and Mr Wong Weng
Heng (Senior Test Engineer) who are giving opinion for this project and their
understanding.
Thanks also to Spectre Solution Sdn Bhd who are giving consultancy
and Circuit Image Sdn Bhd for fabrication PCB. It is a good to feel a real
experience as a Product Engineer or R&D Hardware Engineer to deal with
vendor or third party company during NPI (New Product Introduction).
Last but not least, I am very thankful to my family, my late father who
are giving advice to further my studies, my mother who always pray for my
success, siblings who are understand with my difficulties during studies as
eldest brother I am also taking care of a big family and career as well.
Special thanks to my wife and my two sons aged 4 and 1 year for their
unconditional support and great understanding during this hard journey.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgement
Table of Contents
Abstract
Abbreviation
List of figure/table
1. Introduction
1.1 Personal Statement of Interest
1.2 Project Objective
1.3 Overall Objective
1.4 Proposed Approach and Method
2. Literature Review
2.1 RF Switch
2.2 WiMAX
2.3 ADS
2.4 Model of Pin Diode
2.5 Simulate for λ/4 Wavelength
2.6 Ideal Circuit for RF
2.7 Real Component RF Switch
2.8 Design Schematic & Layout
2.9 Network Analyzer
2.10 S-Parameter (Scattering Parameters)
2.11 The Quarter-wavelength SPDT Switch
2.12 Optimization using DGS
3. Methodology
3.1 Project methodology
3.2 Product Planning
3.3 Final product Assemblies
3.4 Test Operation
3.5 Test Result Compilation
3.6 Simulation Versus Real Measurement
4. Problem and Successes

4.1 Observation
4.2 Challenge
5. Conclusion and Recommendation
6. Reference
7. Appendix
SPDT RF Switch for WiMAX Application
ABSTRACT
This research thesis describes the methodology on the design of the

SPDT RF Switch for WiMAX Application. SPDT RF Switch is a Single Pole
Double Throw switch designated in printed circuit board (PCB) with SMD
component. It is purposely design to use in WiMAX parameter at frequencies
2.4GHz to switch between transmission mode and receiving signal mode in a
substation during twiddling or change to each mode.
Electronic Design Simulation (EDA) software tool were used for design
purpose. By using EDA Software tool, this product able to design and
simulate with an ideal component for easier calculation of the design is
decide. For this purpose, Advanced Design System (ADS), one of EDA
software tool provided by Keysight Technologies were used to realize this
project until this project completely fabricate into two layers PCB, do find the
exact component value per design in murata simulation and proceed to
soldering process and became to new product.
This product was test as a device under test with a Network analyzer
(E5071C) and sweep from 2.3GHz to 2.5GHz to get a centre frequency at
2.4GHZ. Then refer to the datasheet to meet the design specification as a
reference for easily compare the result with simulation result for ideal case of
the design.
ABBREVIATION
ADS Advanced Design System

APTE Associate Product and Test Engineer
dB Decibel (logarithmic unti ratio)
dBm Power ratio (dB) referenced to 1mW
DGS Defect Ground System
DUT Device Under Test
EDA Electronic Design Automation
FR4 Dielectric material in PCB / electronics part
GHz Giga-Hertz ( Hz)
HDD Hard Disk Drive
NPI New Product Introduction
PCB Printed Circuit Board
RX Receiving
S2P SnP (2 ports) file export from Network Analyzer
SMT Surface Mount Technology
SMD Surface Mount Device
SPDT Single Pole Double Throw
SSD Solid State Drive
TX Transmission
WiMAX Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access
List of Figure & Table
Figure 2.1 : Electromechanical Switch by Agilent (Known as Keysight)

Figure 2.2 : SPDT switch with series diodes
Figure 2.3 : Advanced Design System 2011
Figure 2.4 : Model Pin Diode – HSMP-389Y
Figure 2.5 : Pin Diode HSMP-389Y Characteristic
Figure 2.6 : Package Outline and Dimension
Table 2a : Electrical Specifications at Tc = +25°
Table 2b : HSMP-389x Limited APLAC Model
Figure 2.7 : Quarter Wavelength, λ/4
Figure 2.8 : An ideal Schematic Diagram for SPDT topology
Figure 2.9 : RF Switch with murata optimum
Figure 2.10 : Layout PCB design for SPDT RF Switch
Figure 2.11 : Measurement setup for measuring settling time using an Agilent
PNA-L network analyzer
Figure 2.12 : S-Parameter simulation tool in ADS
Figure 2.13 : Quarter wavelength
Figure 2.14 : schematic of the SPDT switch using real component
Figure 2.15 : Final layout of the SPDT RF switch
Figure 2.16: Optimization using DGS
Figure 3.1 : Top side of the prototype design
Figure 3.2 : Bottom side of the prototype design
Figure 3.3 : Flow chart of methodology project
Figure 3.4 : Final Schematic design
Figure 3.5 : Board Layout
Figure 3.6 : Top metal
Figure 3.7 : Vias
Figure 3.8 : silk screen
Figure 3.9 : Top open mask
Figure 3.10 : Bottom metal
Figure 3.11 : All layer into one template
Figure 3.12 : Raw PCB without component.

Figure 3.13 : Last finish product/prototype
Figure 3.14 : Station setup for testing purpose
Figure 3.15 : 3 main equipment using during testing the product/prototype.
Figure 3.16 : Test operation during Rx mode (0V) and Tx mode (5V)
Figure 3.17 : Testing progress. Turn on 5V for Tx Mode, 0V for Rx mode
Table 3a : Design specification in S-Parameter
Table 3b : Result for Quarterwavelength Prototype
Table 3c : Result for DGS Prototype
Figure 3.18 : Measurements for Quarterwavelenght prototype in RX mode
(0V) apply
Figure 3.19 : Measurements for Quarterwavelenght prototype in TX mode
(5V) apply
Figure 3.20 : Measurements for DGS prototype in RX mode (0V) apply
Figure 3.21 : Measurements for DGS prototype in TX mode (5V) apply
Figure 3.22 : RX - Insertion Loss
Figure 3.23 : RX - Isolation Tx/Rx
Figure 3.24 : RX - Isolation Tx/Ant
Figure 3.25 : RX - Return Loss Rx
Figure 3.26 : RX - Return Loss Ant
Figure 3.27 : TX - Insertion Loss
Figure 3.28 : TX - Isolation Tx/Rx
Figure 3.29 : TX - Isolation Rx/Ant
Figure 3.30 : TX - Return Loss Tx
Figure 3.31 : TX - Return Loss Ant
Figure 4.1 : Real size component of SMD used
Table 4a : Dimension of SMT pad design
Figure 4.2 : Size pad of prototype versus 0204 component size
Figure 7.1 : Quotation request
Figure 7.2 : Purchase Order
Figure 7.3 : Delivery Order
Figure 7.4 : Tax invoice
1. Introduction
1.1 Personal Statement of Interest
In new era of technology, something different should been think to

modernize each existing item to a new product that have a similar function
but enhanced from previous version.
As an example;- normal hard disk drive were produce using a disc,

spindle motor, read and write head. Hard Disk-Drive (HDD) has a mechanical
part that spinning during process of reading and writing in the disk. However,
with new technology, hard disk drive nowadays has been improved to the
solid state hard (SSD) drive as a replacement. It is designed with fully
electronics component on board. It is more efficient, high speed during
transfer rate, low noise and compact size.
This transformation has led the idea and curiosity for converting
conventional RF Switch to pin diode switch. The concept is same, the
functional also same but the operational is slightly different as the pin diode
switch is operation by biasing the diode.
1.2 Project Objective
The objective of the proposed design for the switch is operating at up

to 2.4GHz WiMAX system. This switch reduces signal attenuation pass and
exhibit high isolation to avoid interference signals received at the same time.
Also, it is a case study to identify the benefit of pin diode switch that so
called a Solid State Switch rather than using a traditional switches that still
using mechanical part as a main mechanism to do switching.
 To research a SPDT RF Switch using pin diode.

 To provide a cheap RF Switch with a low insertion loss.
 To challenge the RF Switch in the market nowadays with expensive
price and almost using electro-mechanical switches.
 To replace the electro-mechanical switch.
 To design, simulate, fabricate and analyze an innovative switching PIN
diode circuit to integrate with Butler Matrix operating at ISM frequency
(2.45GHz)
 To fabricate the design on the FR4 board after run simulation using
Electronic Design Automation (EDA) software tool.
1.3 Overall Objective
 To research a SPDT RF Switch using pin diode.

 To provide a cheap RF Switch with a low insertion loss.
 To challenge the RF Switch in the market nowadays with expensive
price and almost using electro-mechanical switches.
 To replace the electro-mechanical switch.
1.4 Proposed Approach and Method
The planning process will begin with the research and information
about RF Switch. It includes:
 Find a nearest RF switch around at workplace. Test the switch to

understand how the switch works.
 Find software to design the project item. There is a lot of third party
software in market, but for this project will use ADS software by
Keysight Technologies.
 Build a SPDT RF Switch using breadboard to see it is functional.
 Using a prototype helps to foresee problem, such as the value of the
component and other to meet the impedance and successful deliver
the target of this project.
 Design the PCB board with a good dielectric material that suit with RF
characteristic to avoid a lot of losses during transmission
 Check the PCB S Parameter using Network Analyzer, assemble the
component into PCB and test again with Network Analyzer.
 SPDT RF Switch that already finish will retest with WiMAX frequency
range to ensure the target of this project complete.
2. Literature Review
2.1 RF Switch
RF (Radio Frequency) or microwave switch is a device used for high

frequency signals to be transmitted to the transmission path. RF and
microwave switches are widely used in microwave test systems for routing
signals between the device and the device under test (DUT). He had built a
system of switches in a switch that allows passing signals from multiple
instruments in a single or multiple DUT's. This allows multiple tests to be
conducted with the same setup or procedures can be installed in the same
time (more than one DUT) and can minimize the need to connect and
disconnect frequently. The entire testing process can be carried out
automatically, improving throughput in high volume production environments.
This is quite practical for use in test systems in the factories that manufacture
RF products.
The concept is same as electrical switches, RF and microwave

switches are designed in different configurations to provide freedom in
creating complex matrices and automated test systems for different
applications. It allows the amplitude of the instrument and transmitted to the
output through the switch and continues to be connected to the DUT during
the test. RF switches are categorized by the number of poles and thrower.
The number of pole is the number of separate circuits which are controlled by
the switch. Total number of posts thrower is a separate switch that may be
applicable. For example, here are some types of RF switches:
 Single-pole-double-throw (SPDT or 1:2) switches route signals from

one input port to two selectable output ports. SPDT terminated switch
is a single-pole, double throw switch that has one open output RF port
internally terminated in a 50 Ω resistive load.
 Multiport or single-pole-multiple-throw (SPnT) switches allow a single

input to multiple (three or more) output paths. A multi-position switch
has one input and more than two outputs.
 Transfer or double-pole-double-throw (DPDT) switches can be used to
switch between two inputs and two outputs, as a drop-out switch, for
signal reversal, or to bypass a test component. This switch has two
independent paths that operate simultaneously in either of two
selected positions.
 Bypass switches insert or remove a test component from a signal
path.
RF switches are typically used as microwave devices for switching

and routing in a high frequency signal. The RF Switch can be categories into
two main groups:-
 Electromechanical Switch
 The basic operation based on the simple theory of electromagnetic
induction. They rely on mechanical contacts as their switching
mechanism.
Figure 2.1 : Electromechanical Switch by Agilent (Known as Keysight)

 Solid State Switch

 An electronic switching device based on semiconductor
technology (MOSFET, PIN diode). Function wise, it is similar to an
electromechanical switch except that it has no moving parts.
Figure 2.2 : SPDT switch with series diodes
2.2 WiMAX
WiMAX is acronym for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave

Access. . It based on Wireless MAN technology. This wireless
communications standard designed to provide 30Mbps to 40Mbps data rates.
WiMAX operating same like Wi-Fi but at higher speeds with a greater
distance and for a a lot number of users. WiMAX has the ability to provide
services even in areas that are difficult to provide wired access infrastructure
and capability to overcome the physical limitations of traditional wired
infrastructure
2.3 ADS
ADS are acronym for Advanced Design System used for electronic
design automation software for Microwave, RF and high speed digital
application. For this project, ADS is choose as it is provide for WiMAX, LTE,
radar and satellite application with Wireless Libraries and co-simulation in an
integrated platform
Figure 2.3 : Advanced Design System 2011
This software produced by Keysight EEsof EDA (Electronic Design

Automation) software. It helps designer, engineer to design product such as
cellular phones, wireless networks, communication system and others.
ADS Software is selected to design this project because SPICE model

is not available for pin diode as SPICE does not provide for a key pin diode
characteristic.
2.4 Model of Pin Diode
Figure 2.4 : Model Pin Diode – HSMP-389Y
Pin diode package that have been chosen for this SPDT RF Switch for
WiMAX application is HSMP-389Y. This package is manufactured by Avago
Technologies. The reason this model were chosen is this pin diode has
optimized for switching application require a low resistance at low current and
low capacitance.
Figure 2.5 : Pin Diode HSMP-389Y Characteristic

It is quite straight forward component which this component having

only two pin in a miniature low cost surface mount SOD-523/SOD-323
package.
Figure 2.6 : Package Outline and Dimension
The most important property of the PIN diode is the fact that it can,
under certain circumstances, behave as an almost pure resistance at RF
frequencies, with a resistance value that can be varied over a range of
approximately 1Ω to 10 KΩ through the use of a DC or low frequency control
current.
Table 2a : Electrical Specifications at Tc = +25°

In addition, the pin’s small size, weight, high switching speed, and
minimized parasitic elements make it ideally suited for use in miniature,
broadband RF signal control components.
Table 2b : HSMP-389x Limited APLAC Model

2.5 Simulate for λ/4 Wavelength
To meet the specification of RF board design, λ/4 or Quarter

wavelength is an important thing. It is supported as per designated
frequencies. Normally it would relate in designing antenna. Meanwhile, the
most efficient physical size for reception is based on wavelength.
Figure 2.7 : Quarter Wavelength, λ/4
At high frequencies, the wavelength is very small to allow a maximum

performance. It is a design consideration for the frequency in use and
physical constraint of the product in making which can work better and meet
the specification.
2.6 Ideal Circuit for RF Switch
In an ideal case switch, circuit paths are either closed via an ideal
conductor with 0 Ω impedance or opened by an ideal open circuit with infinite
impedance. Modern semiconductor elements cannot quite meet those ideal
impedance values, but they can come sufficiently close to produce excellent
switch performance.
Ideal versus practical SPDT RF Switch for WiMAX application can be

conclude that ideal component were not present in a real world. This ideal
case component is only purposely to design the quarter wavelength for the
circuit to meet the goal or switch performance specification.
Figure 2.8 : An ideal Schematic Diagram for SPDT topology

2.7 Real Component RF Switch
To design the real structure SPDT Switch, murata component is used.

Murata is refers to inductors suitable for use in high frequency circuits as a
high frequency inductors and "RF inductors.
Figure 2.9 : RF Switch with murata optimum
In a high frequencies circuit, the design of the product is to match the

impedance. It is performing the matching impedance in a transmission line to
match the output of the sending side circuit. So, if the impedance is matched,
the power on the sending signal side can be transmitted (Tx) at the maximum
to the receiving side (Rx).
2.8 Design Schematic & Layout
After complete designing the quarter wavelength and placing the

murata component to replace the lump component in an ideal schematic
completely, the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) layout is laid as per
measurement that have been done in a previous step that already match the
character and meet the specification in Electronic Design Automation (EDA)
– ADS.
A printed circuit board (PCB) design is the most important design

element to produce an electronics product. It is use as a reference to
standardize the product during production. Once the layout of the PCB is
completely designed, complete with measurement, size and material to use
in fabrication, it is ready to fabricate the raw PCB.
Figure 2.10 : Layout PCB design for SPDT RF Switch

2.9 Network Analyzer
Network analyzer is referred to electrical network measurement. It is

used to measure device under test (DUT) to characterize for both linear and
non-linear behaviour. For this project the device under test is the SPDT RF
Switch that design with pinned diode.
This measurement is to meet the design specification and to measure

the S-Parameter in practical. Figure 9 is showing the measurement of DUT
using network analyzer and function generator.
Figure 2.11 : Measurement setup for measuring settling time using an

Agilent PNA-L network analyzer
2.10 S-Parameter (Scattering Parameters)
Scattering Parameters or S-Parameters is a method of describing the

response of a two port network in terms of incident and reflect wave. S-
Parameter analysis is an important tool in designing the SPDT RF Switch.
By using Electronic Design Automation software such as Advanced

Design System 2011 provide by Keysight Technologies, it has a tool to
simulate and measure the S-Parameter in simulation wise.
Figure 2.12 : S-Parameter simulation tool in ADS

2.11 The Quarter-wavelength SPDT Switch
The topology as showed in figure below is the quarter wavelength

SPDT switch. The design consists of a series-connected PIN diode
connected in series with the transmitter, and a shunt diode connected a
quarter-wavelength away from the antenna node. The advantage of this
design is it only requires one bias supply to control the signal compared to
the T-network and Pi-network SPDT Switch.
Figure 2.13 : Quarter wavelength
The λ/4 can be designed depending on the type of the transmission

medium (PCB). We can use CAD like ADS to generate the length and width
of the transmission line to create a λ/4 line for 2.4GHz.
Figure 2.14 : schematic of the SPDT switch using real component

Figure above shows the schematic of the SPDT switch using real
component (selected is Murata for the capacitors and RF chokes), the
HSMP-389Y pin diodes and the transmission lines (mlin and mtee in ADS).
The quarter wavelength has been optimized for 2.4GHz, and it is to balance
the performance between the Transmit mode specs and Receive mode
specs.
Figure 2.15 : Final layout of the SPDT RF switch
2.12 Optimization using DGS
The figure below shows the SPDT switch with defected ground
structure (DGS). The rectangular shaped quarter wavelength from Topology
3 is now designed and converted into the dumb-bell shaped DGS pattern in
the layout design. The DGS is realized by etching only a few areas on the
ground plane under a transmission line. As in this design, DGS also works as
a quarter-wavelength. The circuit functions same as the SPDT switch with
quarter wavelength but with DGS replaced to the quarter wavelength.
Figure 2.16: Optimization using DGS

3. Methodology
3.1 Project methodology
There are 3 stages during implement this project. These processes

happen from the start of this project begin until the end process. Basically the
3 stages of this process are:-
 1st stage: Studying the basic.

 2nd stage: Design using in ADS Software
 3rd stage: Construct the prototype on FR4 board
1st stage: Studying the basic
At this stage, the literature review was studied. Also, the fundamental
of RF was studied for better understanding on this project. It is covered the
different of SPDT switch for WiMAX, understanding the pin diode as a switch,
to familiar using the ADS software as well. At this stage, 3 main parts to
understand is RF Fundamental, WiMAX system and the ADS software.
2nd stage: Design using in ADS Software
After the process of studying the basic is understand, then start to

design the selected SPDT switch topologies with ADS software. Analyse the
selected RF switch topologies and Defect Ground System in ADS software.
Build the schematic and layout with an ideal case component to get the
match impedance for this product design.
3rd stage: Construct the prototype on FR4 board
Working with fabricate house to construct the PCB on FR4 material.

This material used due to good dielectric for product design and suitable
match with the design. Furthermore, this material is cheaper than other
dielectric material in market. Then the product prototype is constructing by
put the component as per design specification. The product prototype is
tested and the test measurement result is compared to design specification.
Figure 3.1 : Top side of the prototype design
Figure 3.2 : Bottom side of the prototype design

Figure 3.3 : Flow chart of methodology project

3.2 Product Planning
After completing design the schematic and layout using ADS software,
then need to determine the component value used in design. List of
component used:-
1. Pin Diode X1, X2, X3 = HSMP389Y, 3pcs

2. SMA RF Connector = 3pcs
3. Pin (5V) connector = 2pcs
4. Resistor, R1 = 150Ω, 1pcs
5. Inductor, L1 = 33nH, 1pcs
6. Capacitor, C1 = 15000pF/15nF, 1pcs
7. Capacitor, C2 = 12000pF/12nF, 1pcs
8. Capacitor, C3 = 16pF, 1pcs
Figure 3.4 : Final Schematic design

Also, the PCB design is summarized per designated in ADS. The PCB
parameter is also clear stated for easily produces the product. The design
has 6 layers including board layout, the top metal layer, the vias layer, the
silk screen layer, top open with mask and bottom metal layer. Board layout
layer is just for board boundary reference. Bottom Metal all open mask (no
mask). At Bottom Metal, there is 2 cut out area of the metal for second
design with optimize.
Figure 3.5 : Board Layout Figure 3.6 : Top metal
Figure 3.7 : Vias Figure 3.8 : silk screen
Figure 3.9 : Top open mask Figure 3.10 : Bottom metal

Per below figure is all layout design into one template. This template is
the expected board design during fabricate it.
Figure 3.11 : All layer into one template
Consultation by Spectre Solution Sdn. Bhd, the company help to deal

with Circuit Image Sdn Bhd to fabricate the PCB using machine according to
gerber file export by ADS software as per design. As information, Spectre
Solution Sdn Bhd provides an engineered product, technical consultation as
well as fabrication of project in Industrial also for training purpose.
3.3 Final product Assemblies
The raw PCB (without any component) received and tested the
continuity to ensure all trace is connected end to end. Also, the board was
test the isolation to ensure the trace each other was not connected.
Figure 3.12 : Raw PCB without component.
Next process, all components was placed into the solder pad. First
component to pick and place to the solder pad is inductor. Inductor have a
tiny coil in the packaging of the component, worried if component damaged
during the soldering process, then place this component up front. Capacitors
then pick and place to the solder pad and solder it accordingly. Last
component placed is the pin diode HSMP-389Y, SMA RF connector and
pogo pin to bias the voltage from supply.
Figure 3.13 : Last finish product/prototype

3.4 Test Operation
Figure 3.14 : Station setup for testing purpose
For this operation, station for testing been setup per above figure. The
most important equipment needs is Network Analyzer to sweep across the
frequency and point the characteristic at centre frequency at 2.4GHz.
E5071C Network Analyzer is used for this operation. Calibration kit is used t0
calibrate the Network Analyzer for port 1 and port 2 with open, short, load
and thru for S21 parameter measurement. E3610 Power Supply is used to
supply 5 voltages during the operation and Keithley Multimeter use to confirm
the voltage supply does not exceed 5V during the test operation. Other
equipment in the station setup is used for troubleshooting purpose.
Figure 3.15 : 3 main equipment using during testing the product/prototype.
Operation During Transmit Mode
A positive supply voltage of 5 volts is switched to V s which turns in the

two PIN diodes D9 and D10. Both diodes are in the low impedance state
which creates a low-loss TX-ANT path and a protected RX port from the TX
power. The RF signal is then pass from the TX to the antenna (ANT)
whereas the DC signal will flow through both PIN diode and resistor to the
ground. The transmit TX signal will be blocked by the 90° long 50Ω microstrip
(at quarter wavelength) that is now shorted through D10, making it a
resonant-shorted stub that acts as an open to the RF.
Figure 3.16 : Test operation during Rx mode (0V) and Tx mode (5V)
Figure 3.17 : Testing progress. Turn on 5V for Tx Mode, 0V for Rx mode
Operation During Receive Mode
During receive signal from the antenna, the voltage supply V s is set to
0 volt, forcing both PIN diodes off, creating an open circuit both at D9 and
D10. Both diodes are zero biased and in high impedance state which results
in a low loss path between antenna and receiver and a high isolation ANT-TX
path. Thus, the receive signal can easily pass from the antenna to the
receiver RX, while the signal is being blocked from entering the transceiver
TX. Since the 90° long 50Ω microstrip is now not shorted, it no longer acts as
a shorted stub, but as a normal 50Ω transmission line. The advantage of this
design is no current consumption is needed in the receive mode.
3.5 Test Result Compilation
The test result is obtained as per test method require in design

specification in S-Parameter per below Table:-
Mode RX TX
Insertion Loss < 0.65 dB < 0.8 dB
Isolation TX/RX >18 dB >14.5 dB
Isolation RX/Ant - >16.5 dB
Isolation TX/Ant >14.5 dB -
Return Loss RX >20 dB -
Return Loss TX >20 dB
Return Loss Ant >20 dB >20 dB
Table 3a : Design specification in S-Parameter
The result obtain for both design (Quarterwavelenght and DGS) per
below table is the real time result during the result is take note. The result
from S2P format is slightly different due to the real time for take note and
during save S2P file is different. Per below table is real time measurement for
first board, quarterwavelenght prototype. The measurement unit was in
decibel (dB).
Measurement 1st Board (λ/4)
1st measure 2nd measure filename .S2P
Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx
Insertion Loss -2.21 -1.95 -2.24 -1.99 a1(S21) a6(S21)
Isolation Tx/Rx -16.27 -17.29 -16.70 -17.28 a2(s21) a7(s21)
Isolation Rx/Ant - -17.09 - -16.92 - a8(S21)
Isolation Tx/Ant -15.79 - -16.26 - a3(s21) -
Return Loss Rx -14.67 - -14.72 - a4(S22) -
Return Loss Tx - -16.12 - -16.05 - a9(S11)
Return Loss Ant -16.87 -14.59 -16.65 -14.45 a5(S11) a10(S22)
Table 3b : Result for Quarterwavelength Prototype

Per below table is real time measurement for second board, DGS
prototype. The measurement unit was in decibel (dB).
Measurement 2nd Board (DGS)

1st measure 2nd measure filename .S2P
Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx
Insertion Loss -2.74 -1.95 -2.73 -1.99 b1(s21) b6(s21)
Isolation Tx/Rx -14.93 -16.85 -16.98 -16.82 b2(s21) b7(s21)
Isolation Rx/Ant - -17.49 - -16.19 - b8(s21)
Isolation Tx/Ant -13.89 - -15.94 - b3(s21) -
Return Loss Rx -13.63 - -14.51 - b4(S22) -
Return Loss Tx - -16.83 - -16.37 - b9(s11)
Return Loss Ant -17.72 -15.03 -18.51 -14.28 b5(s11) b10(s22)
Table 3c : Result for DGS Prototype
Testing is run for Quarterwavelenght prototype PCB in receiving

mode. At this mode, no voltage or 0 Volt is apply. Pin diode is turn off.
Figure 3.18 : Measurements for Quarterwavelenght prototype in RX mode

(0V) apply
Testing is run for Quarterwavelenght prototype PCB in transmission

mode (TX mode). At this mode, 5 Volt is applied to bias the voltage and turn
on pin diode.
Figure 3.19 : Measurements for Quarterwavelenght prototype in TX mode

(5V) apply
Testing is run for DGS prototype PCB in receiving mode. At this mode,
no voltage or 0 Volt is apply. Pin diode is turn off.
Figure 3.20 : Measurements for DGS prototype in RX mode (0V) apply

Testing is run for DGS prototype PCB in transmission mode (TX

mode). At this mode, 5 Volt is applied to bias the voltage and turn on pin
diode.
Figure 3.21 : Measurements for DGS prototype in TX mode (5V) apply

3.6 Simulation Versus Real Measurement
From the software design, the simulation might be great if putting the
exactly characteristic of the component those use in the prototype product
design. The software simulation is the guideline of expected result obtained
from this prototype product. There are ten comparisons for simulation versus
real measurement for both design (Quarterwavelenght and DGS), 5 for
receiving mode and 5 for transmission mode.
Figure 3.22 : RX - Insertion Loss

Figure 3.23 : RX - Isolation Tx/Rx
Figure 3.24 : RX - Isolation Tx/Ant

Figure 3.25 : RX - Return Loss Rx
Figure 3.26 : RX - Return Loss Ant

Figure 3.27 : TX - Insertion Loss
Figure 3.28 : TX - Isolation Tx/Rx

Figure 3.29 : TX - Isolation Rx/Ant
Figure 3.30 : TX - Return Loss Tx

Figure 3.31 : TX - Return Loss Ant
Insertion loss measurement ideally to get 0dB, this measurement is

equivalent to thru measurement but few factors must be take note for better
measurement result. For isolation and return loss the infinity result is better
for a measurement case.
4. Problem and Successes
4.1 Observation
Measurement uncertainty, this terminology approaches of the

measurement parameter, associated with the result measurement,
characteristic, method, equipment and auxiliary using in the test that
contribute the dispersion of the value to the measuring.
From observation on this project design, the Quarterwavelenght and

DGS prototype are almost similar even though the PCB size is reduce almost
20% to 30% but the characteristic of the board is same which is the design of
the PCB is accurate.
The ideal and measured data was not similar because of the APLAC
model of the pin diode was not same. It is a must to put the characteristic of
the component accurately per data sheet. Unluckily the component use for
HSMP 389Y was obsoleted for two pinned and come with new packaging
with 3 pinned that cause it's hard to get the exactly data sheet needs.
The test equipment and auxiliary setup also give the uncertainty of the
measurement such as the cable use; even the Network Analyzer is calibrated
with the calibration kit to compensate the error but there are an extra loss
attended during bending the cable.
Other factor of the measurement is the RF connector issue. For this

test measurement, the quick connector was used to connect to the end of the
cable and the torque value at cable and RF connector was not in counter
measure.
4.2 Challenge
Each project facing its own challenge, for this project the first
challenge is to understand and familiar with EDA software provide by
Keysight Technologies, the ADS software. Even have been working at this
company, but the current job scope is non-related to use this software. But
the value is there for the advantage to extra miles and enhanced the
knowledge.
The design processes also give a big challenge as it is needs a lot of

research. Luckily in the company got an expertise to give a hand and advice
for this process of design.
Material and design problem; as this is the first experienced for

designing new product introduction (NPI) few factor of design concern was
dismissed such as the size pad layout using SMD size 0102 but the space is
just enough for the component size and no space pad for soldering pad.
Figure 4.1 : Real size component of SMD used
Few component values was hard to find in a small size such as

inductor in 0102 size pad was hard to find. The pin diode also hard to find the
component with two leg as nowadays package was with 3 leg component.
Table 4a : Dimension of SMT pad design
Figure 4.2 : Size pad of prototype versus 0204 component size

5. Conclusion and Recommendation
The first board design with Quarterwavelength and DGS design nearly
meet specification as the measurement result was not too far each other. In
order to optimize the board size and scaling it, it is a lot a try and error to cut
the copper size to shorten the board size reduce approximately 20% to 30%
which it is a required design nowadays in a small scale.
Survey and a lot of research before starting the design is a must. It is

cover the component if the component is highly used or rarely used to ease
the project run. Other aspect to counter measure is the layout design is a
must to ease the soldering process, having a safety insulation grounded and
having a pad solder for the RF connector at the top layer to ensure the
grounding is well connected. The aspects that counter in this observation are
for improvement of the product prototype to achieve a better result.
6. Reference
1) Tanaka, Shingo, et al. "Frequency-tunable PIN diode switch for
software defined radio." Wireless Technology, 2005. The European
Conference on. IEEE, 2005.
2) Jackson, B. R., and C. E. Saavedra. "2.4 GHz direct-digital binary
phase shift keying modulator using MEMS switch." Electronics Letters
40.24 (2004): 1539-1541.
3) Andrews, Jeffrey G., Arunabha Ghosh, and Rias Muhamed.
Fundamentals of WiMAX: understanding broadband wireless
networking. Pearson Education, 2007.
4) Ghosh, Arunabha, et al. "Broadband wireless access with
WiMax/802.16: current performance benchmarks and future potential."
Communications Magazine, IEEE 43.2 (2005): 129-136.
5) Yang, Yang, et al. "Relay technologies for WiMAX and LTE-advanced
mobile systems." Communications Magazine, IEEE 47.10 (2009): 100-
105.
APLAC Model HSMP-389Y

http://www.hp.woodshot.com/hprfhelp/design/SPICE/pins.htm#HSMP3
89x
Keysight Technologies
http://www.keysight.com/main/home.jspx?lc=eng&cc=MY
Spectre Solutions Sdn Bhd

http://www.spectresolutions.com.my/
Circuit Image Pte. Ltd.

http://www.circuitimageonline.com.sg/
7. Appendix
Figure 7.1 : Quotation request

Figure 7.2 : Purchase Order

Figure 7.3 : Delivery Order

Figure 7.4 : Tax invoice

SPDT RF Switch For WiMAX Application

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

SPDT RF Switch For WiMAX Application

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

SPDT RF Switch For WiMAX Application

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

SPDT RF Switch for WiMAX Application

Mohd Amirruddin Bin Abd Halim

Project report submitted as part fulfilment for the degree of

School of Science and Technology

April 2016 of submission

I would like to express my thankful to my project supervisor, Mr, Anuar

Besides, I would like to thank my colleague at Keysight Technologies

4. Problem and Successes

SPDT RF Switch for WiMAX Application

This research thesis describes the methodology on the design of the

ADS Advanced Design System

List of Figure & Table

Figure 2.1 : Electromechanical Switch by Agilent (Known as Keysight)

Figure 3.12 : Raw PCB without component.

1.1 Personal Statement of Interest

In new era of technology, something different should been think to

As an example;- normal hard disk drive were produce using a disc,

1.2 Project Objective

The objective of the proposed design for the switch is operating at up

 To research a SPDT RF Switch using pin diode.

1.3 Overall Objective

 To research a SPDT RF Switch using pin diode.

1.4 Proposed Approach and Method

 Find a nearest RF switch around at workplace. Test the switch to

RF (Radio Frequency) or microwave switch is a device used for high

The concept is same as electrical switches, RF and microwave

 Single-pole-double-throw (SPDT or 1:2) switches route signals from

 Multiport or single-pole-multiple-throw (SPnT) switches allow a single

RF switches are typically used as microwave devices for switching

Figure 2.1 : Electromechanical Switch by Agilent (Known as Keysight)

 Solid State Switch

Figure 2.2 : SPDT switch with series diodes

WiMAX is acronym for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave

Figure 2.3 : Advanced Design System 2011

This software produced by Keysight EEsof EDA (Electronic Design

ADS Software is selected to design this project because SPICE model

2.4 Model of Pin Diode

Figure 2.4 : Model Pin Diode – HSMP-389Y

Figure 2.5 : Pin Diode HSMP-389Y Characteristic

It is quite straight forward component which this component having

Figure 2.6 : Package Outline and Dimension

Table 2a : Electrical Specifications at Tc = +25°

Table 2b : HSMP-389x Limited APLAC Model

2.5 Simulate for λ/4 Wavelength

To meet the specification of RF board design, λ/4 or Quarter

Figure 2.7 : Quarter Wavelength, λ/4

At high frequencies, the wavelength is very small to allow a maximum

2.6 Ideal Circuit for RF Switch

Ideal versus practical SPDT RF Switch for WiMAX application can be

Figure 2.8 : An ideal Schematic Diagram for SPDT topology

2.7 Real Component RF Switch

To design the real structure SPDT Switch, murata component is used.

Figure 2.9 : RF Switch with murata optimum

In a high frequencies circuit, the design of the product is to match the

2.8 Design Schematic & Layout

After complete designing the quarter wavelength and placing the

A printed circuit board (PCB) design is the most important design

Figure 2.10 : Layout PCB design for SPDT RF Switch

2.9 Network Analyzer