Microwave Engineering

International Journal of Electrical Engineering Education, Jul 1998 by Sharp, John

Microwave Engineering, 2nd Ed.: D. M. POZAR

(John Wiley, 1998, 716 pp., L28.95 hardback)

This book is based on the curriculum of a two semester course in microwave engineering at University of Massachusetts, Amherst. The extensive text contains much useful information without forming a simple handbook of circuits and systems. In twelve chapters everything, from basic field theory to more practical microwave circuit design and system descriptions, is covered. Enough theory is presented to show that developments are based on fundamental concepts and are often related rather than being interesting individual entities.

An introduction to field theory concentrates on a development of Maxwell's equations and their uses in examining free space propagation and reflections form boundaries. The text leads on, logically, to the description of transmission lines in terms of lumped elements and field quantities. Once parameters such as propagation constant, and characteristic impedance, are established transmission structures can be described in the same way. These generic quantities are developed for the uniform transmission lines, including coaxial lines, stripline microstrip and waveguides as well as dielectric slab guide. An analysis of each type also introduces the idea of higher order modes.

Microwave circuit analysis is developed by considering equivalent voltage and current, S and ABCD parameters and signal flow graphs. These techniques are complemented by modal analysis for the examination of discontinuities. The Smith chart, whose derivation is encountered in chapter 2, is used to help in graphical solution to matching problems. The standard techniques of single and double stub matching are shown in some detail although a graphical treatment of bandwidth calculation is not given. Transformer techniques are shown and the frequency responses are illustrated for each type.

Various forms of resonators, couplers and filters are described and developed in the next four chapters together with their classical theoretical background. Ferrimagnetic devices, in the form of phase shifters, isolators and circulators bring the passive section of this book to a conclusion.

After a brief but thorough treatment of noise, some typical mixer circuits are analysed. The limitations of microwave semiconductors precedes an explanation of the design of amplifiers and oscillators. Good coverage is given to low noise, narrowband, and various forms of broadband amplifier. Some theoretical treatment is given to balanced and distributed amplifiers.

An introduction to microwave communication, radar and measurement systems contains the basics of antennas and propagation characteristics. This integration of components into systems forms an apt conclusion to the book.

The several useful appendices are included for reference while attempting the numerous examples in each chapter. At the end of every chapter there are full references to which the reader can look if they feel they require even more information on a particular area.

I am sure this comprehensive second edition of Microwave Engineering will form the recommended text in many departments for final year or taught postgraduate students.

JOHN SHARP Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering, Napier University, Edinburgh