Terminology » RF Components » Microstrip vs. Coplanar Waveguide: A Comparison

Microstrip vs. Coplanar Waveguide: A Comparison

microstrip coplanar waveguide transmission line rf circuit microwave

This document outlines the key differences between microstrip lines and coplanar waveguides (CPW). These transmission line structures are commonly used in microwave and RF circuit design, each offering distinct advantages and disadvantages depending on the application.

Here’s a comparison table summarizing the key features:

Feature	Microstrip Line	Coplanar Waveguide (CPW)
Dispersion	High	Low
Losses	Low	High
Coupling	High	Low
Design Flexibility	Low	High
Circuit Size	Large	Small
Backside Processing	Yes	No
Via Holes	Yes	No

Let’s delve a bit deeper into these differences:

Dispersion: Microstrip lines exhibit higher dispersion compared to CPW lines. This means that different frequency components of a signal travel at slightly different speeds, leading to signal distortion, particularly at higher frequencies. CPW, on the other hand, offers better performance in this aspect.
Losses: Microstrip lines generally have lower losses than CPW lines. This is due to the current being more concentrated in the conductor of a microstrip line compared to CPW, leading to lower conductor losses.
Coupling: Microstrip lines offer higher coupling between adjacent lines. This can be beneficial in certain applications like filters and couplers, but can also be a source of unwanted crosstalk in dense circuit layouts. CPW exhibits lower coupling.
Design Flexibility: CPW provides greater design flexibility compared to microstrip lines. The ability to independently control the gap and width of the CPW structure allows for a wider range of impedance values and circuit configurations.
Circuit Size: CPW circuits tend to be smaller than equivalent microstrip circuits. This is because the ground planes are located on the same side of the substrate as the signal trace in CPW, allowing for denser integration.
Backside Processing & Via Holes: Microstrip line fabrication often involves backside processing and the use of via holes for grounding. CPW design generally avoids the need for these, simplifying the manufacturing process.

In Summary:

Choosing between microstrip and CPW depends heavily on the specific application requirements. Microstrip lines are a good choice where low losses are critical and backside processing is acceptable. CPW is preferable when high design flexibility, compact circuit size, and minimal dispersion are paramount.