Optically controlled multilayer coplanar waveguide phase shifter

N J I T
posted on 06/30/2009

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A multilayer coplanar waveguide having a fine-patterned conductive top cover coated with a photosensitive material for optically controlling the phase shift within the waveguide. The multilayer coplanar waveguide comprises a conductive ground plane, a first dielectric layer formed on the conductive ground plane, a second dielectric layer formed on the first dielectric layer, a conductive signal carrier and a pair of conductive floating ground planes flanking the conductive signal carrier formed on the second dielectric layer, a third dielectric layer formed on the conductive signal carrier, the pair of conductive floating ground planes, and the second dielectric layer, fine-patterned conductive strips formed on the third dielectric layer, and a photosensitive material layer formed on the fine-patterned conductive strips and the third dielectric layer. The photosensitive material, when illuminated, generates free electrons which drift toward the conductive strips thereby increasing the resistance between the conductive strips and increasing the phase delay of signals propagating through the waveguide. Thus, the phase shift within the multilayer coplanar waveguide is optically controllable.