Microstrip and slot lines

The microstrip line (Figure 2.2-5(a)) is a variant of the

stripline with part of the shield removed. The slot line
(Figure 2.2-5(b)) is also a useful line for h.f. transmission.
2.2.3.4 Twin lines
In Figure 2.2-6, we show a sketch of a twin line carefully
spaced by a polyethylene dielectric. This is used at relatively
low frequencies. This twin cable is designed to
have a characteristic impedance (Z0) of approximately
300U and it is frequently used as a very high frequency
(VHF) cable or as a dipole antenna for FM radio receivers
in the FM band. The parallel wire line arrangement of
Figure 2.2-6 without a dielectric support can also be seen
mounted on poles as overhead telephone lines, overhead
power lines, and sometimes as lines connecting high
power, low and medium frequency radio transmitters to
their antennas.
All seven transmission lines shown in Figures 2.2-3
2.2-6 have advantages and disadvantages. For minimum
loss, you would use the waveguide, the coaxial line and
the strip line in integrated circuits. However, the latter
two lines present difficulties in connecting external
components to the inner conductor. The coplanar
waveguide is better in this respect and finds favour in
monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs) because
it allows easy series and parallel connections to
external electrical components. The microstrip line is
also useful for making series connections but not parallel
connections because the only way through to the ground
plane is either through or around the edge of the substrate.
This is particularly true when a short circuit is
required between the upper conductor and the ground
plane; holes have to be drilled through the substrate.
Microstrip also suffers from radiation losses. Nevertheless,
microstrip can be made easily and conveniently and
it is therefore used extensively.
2.2.3.5 Coupled lines
Coupled lines are lines which are laid alongside each
other in order to permit coupling between the two lines.
One example of microstrip coupled lines is shown in the
F1 layout box of Figure 2.2-2 where three sets of coupled
lines are used to couple energy from input port 1 to
output port 4.