Design and Fabrication of High Frequency Coaxial Transmission Line
This paper discusses design considerations and fabrication challenges involved in the production of a coaxial transmission line that can transmit signals without secondary moding above 110 GHz. Specific areas highlighted include the transition into the dielectric support, the impact of tolerances on performance, and nontraditional machining techniques used in component fabrication. Full wave FEA simulations are used to explore the effect of tolerances on performance, as well as to investigate the performance of various designs for the transition to the insulating support. Additionally, the results of a cylindrical EDM turning process that is used to create a stepped center conductor with a diameter that is less than 100 microns are presented. The goal of this paper is to give insight into what the mechanical demands will be as electronics move to higher and higher frequencies.