A nodular approach to beam waveguide — the optiguidetm system

Abstract

We have developed a compact system of Gaussian beam waveguide using low loss lenses which is useful for test bench as well as subsystem applications. The frequency range from 75 GHz (4mm wavelength) to 300 GHz (1mm wavelength) is covered in octave bandwidths. OptiguideTM Gaussian beam waveguide can handle multiple polarizations, and can be adapted to handle multiple spatial modes as well. To date, we have developed 3- and 4-port directional couplers, attenuators, isolators, and circulators. Polarization processing components include grids which can act as polarization diplexers or analyzers, half-wave plates, and quarter-wave plates. The modular approach readily lends itself to configuring of systems to provide a wide range of functions. Some data on a 140–220 GHz (WR-5 waveguide band) system are presented,