King Saud University College of Engineering Electrical Engineering Department

Semester: 321

Senior Design Project Proposal Form

Project # C8
Project Title: Compact Dual-Band/Multi-Band Microstrip Bandpass Filters for WiMAX and
WLAN Wireless Communication Systems

Professor(s) Name(s): Dr. Zuhair M. Hejaz Number of Students: Two Students Qualifications
Good Background in EM, Transmission line theory at RF/Microwave Frequencies. Programming in Matlab. Basic knowledge of EM simulators.

Statement of Problem
With the advent of wireless communications, the design of many passive circuits, such as the bandpass filters, are facing new design challenges including compact size, wide bandwidth and multi-band operations. For example, high data-rate wireless communication systems, such as worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) and wireless local area network (WLAN), require wide bandwidth up to several hundred of megahertz and flexibility of operating in multiple frequency bands. Planar bandpass filters fabricated on printed circuit board (PCB) are attractive for filter application because their low fabrication cost suits commercial application well. The multi-band microwave components, when realized, can lead to both the size and cost reduction in the circuits used for multi-band wireless communication systems.

Brief Description of the Project

In this project, broadband bandpass filters with dual-band operation at first, and multiple-band operation in later phase, are to be designed and demonstrated using a suitable approach, possibly using slotted ground structure and other techniques. The design should satisfy the features of compact size, wide bandwidth, low insertion loss, and design flexibility in the passbands frequencies to meet the commercial application needs.

Objectives
(1) To conduct a sufficient literature survey of existing designs and solutions. (2) Explore possible design procedures and analysis approaches used to achieve such filters. (3) Explore and master suitable design tools and simulators. (4) Design a planar UWB filter as a basic filter, then develop the design of this filter to achieve dual/multiple operation. (5) Present simulation results of such a filter and measurement results if implemented.

Technical Approach and Expected Deliverables

The approach to achieve the objectives of this project should mainly be supported by EM simulation tools such as Sonnet EM Simulator, IE3D, HFSS, ADS or Microwave Studio software where applicable. Implementation and testing of the designed planar filter is recommended if the fabrication facilities and materials are available.