What's the microwave S-parameter?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around S-parameters in microwave engineering, exploring their definitions, applications, and relationships to other port parameters. Participants share resources and insights related to understanding S-parameters and their significance in RF device specifications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express difficulty in obtaining a simple answer regarding S-parameters.
  • Links to external resources, including an encyclopedia entry and a free ebook chapter on S-parameters, are shared as helpful references.
  • One participant humorously questions the value of the ebook, prompting a light-hearted exchange about its worth.
  • A participant explains that S-parameters are similar to other port parameters (ABCD, Z, Y) and describe incidence and reflected power waves, specifically mentioning the four S-parameters: S11, S21, S12, and S22.
  • It is noted that S-parameters can be represented in polar coordinates or as complex numbers and can be plotted on a Smith Chart to derive Z and Y parameters, aiding in circuit design and matching networks.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a simple definition of S-parameters, and the discussion includes both shared resources and differing perspectives on their explanation and application.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the reader's prior knowledge of RF concepts and the mathematical representation of S-parameters are present, which may limit understanding for those unfamiliar with the topic.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in microwave engineering, RF device specifications, and those seeking resources for understanding S-parameters may find this discussion beneficial.

iScience
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i haven't been able to obtain a simple answer
 
Science news on Phys.org
http://www.microwaves101.com/encyclopedia/sparameters.cfm
 
So its worth is "many times" 0?
 
yes. I was being a bit silly. sorry!

jason
 
jasonRF said:
Chapter 13 of this free ebook is on S parameters. Is a good book, by the way. Worth many times the price!

http://www.ece.rutgers.edu/~orfanidi/ewa/

That book's awesome! Thanks for posting!
 
It is very similar to other port parameters like ABCD, Z, Y, etc. S-parameter deals with incidence and reflected power waves and the 2 port parameters are ##S_{11},\; S_{21},\;S_{12},\;S_{22}## and with certain condition like either the reflected or incident wave is zero etc. Keep that in mind, it's just another parameters.

Most RF device are spec with S-parameters. They are presented either as polar coordinates form where they give you the amplitude and the phase angle, or presented as complex numbers. You plot the parameters on Smith Chart and you can read out Z and Y parameters also. That will make it very easy to design circuits and matching networks.
 
Last edited:

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