2. Computer-aided design (CAD)

The search for increasingly high-performance hybrid or integrated microwave circuits is leading to ever greater complexity for designers. Indeed, combining multiple functions on a single small circuit makes it essential to study the interactions between components in advance. Since measurements inside a microwave circuit are difficult, only numerical simulation can provide the information needed for its design. These numerical simulation techniques are grouped under the name CAD: they comprise logically interlinked steps:

• the initial definition of the circuit based on the specifications;

• analysis of its operation using models of its elements and components;

• comparison between calculated performance and desired performance;

• analysis of performance...