| The design of a high power high frequency power attenuation switch is examined in this thesis. It is a directional coupler with a switchable output. Two circuit designs are considered. The first uses off-the-shelf components and the second is a custom design. The off-the-shelf approach is a quicker process, but it is a very expensive approach. The custom design requires a little extra time but ends up being less expensive than the off-the-shelf approach. The switching process in the circuit can be conducted via mechanical or semiconductor switches. The most efficient type of switch (semiconductor or mechanical) is examined from a cost, availability, power and frequency rating perspective. Both designs are fabricated and measured and the results are analyzed. |
