Numerical analysis of PBG via structures using FDTD algorithm

Abstract

Purpose - To study the photonic band-gap (PBG) characteristics constructed by periodic conducting vias on various guided transmission-line structures. Design/methodology/approach - The finite difference time domain (FDTD) method is adopted to analyze various PBG via structures. Conventionally, PBG characteristics on guided-wave structures, such as microstrip lines or coplanar waveguides (CPW), are constructed through a series of perforations on the ground plane(s). PBG characteristics can, however, also be realized through periodic arrangements of conducting vias located on the respective ground planes. Findings - Through studies of the scattering parameters, it has been found that all analyzed PBG via structures exhibit strong band-gap characteristics in a particular frequency range. Different harmonic patterns are also observed when the dimensional sizes of the conducting vias vary with respect to the PBG period. Research limitations/implications - Research has been mainly limited to study solely the PBG via structures, guided-wave transmission lines. More studies may be conducted in analyzing the overall performance when they are combined with other microwave components. Practical implications - The proposed PBG via structures can be applied to various microwave areas, ranging from signal suppressions in microelectronics and mobile communications, to electro-magnetic interference studies in other practical electronic circuit structures. Originality/value - The ideas of applying conducting vias on the guided-wave transmission lines and the proposed via patterns to induce the PBG characteristics are the research's claim to originality one.