Synthesis of parametrically-coupled networks

TL;DR

This paper unifies the design of parametrically-coupled circuits with traditional filter synthesis methods, enabling systematic creation of devices like amplifiers and nonreciprocal components with specified transfer properties.

Contribution

It introduces a common framework for designing parametrically-coupled devices using microwave filter synthesis techniques, bridging a gap between different circuit types.

Findings

Unified description of various parametrically-coupled circuits

Application of filter synthesis methods to parametric devices

Design examples demonstrating practical implementation

Abstract

We show that a common language can be used to unify the description of parametrically-coupled circuits--parametric amplifiers, frequency converters, and parametric nonreciprocal devices--with that of band-pass filter and impedance matching networks. This enables one to readily adapt network synthesis methods from microwave engineering in the design of parametrically-coupled devices having prescribed transfer characteristics, e.g. gain, bandwidth, return loss, and isolation. We review basic practical aspects of coupled mode theory and filter synthesis, and then show how to apply both, on an equal footing, to the design of multi-pole, broadband parametric and non-reciprocal networks. We supplement the discussion with a range of examples and reference designs.