Importance

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Abstract

A microwave and millimeter wave hybrid or monolithic microstrip test probe assembly provides a noninvasive radio frequency test point in a microstrip circuit. The probe assembly comprises a microstrip coupler. (12) adjacent a microstrip line (10) in the circuit for sampling a small amount of microwave energy propagating along said microstrip line. A stripline circuit (20, 22 and 24) is connected to the microstrip coupler. The stripline circuit includes a pad area (24) and a probe (26) moveable to overlay the pad area. The probe forms a ground plane with respect to the pad area, and a coaxial line (34) has an outer conductor connected to the probe and an inner conductor projecting through a hole in the probe. The probe assembly provides an RF test point within a microstrip circuit which allows an accurate, calibrated and repeatable means of sampling a microstrip signal while not affecting the normal performance of the hybrid or monolithic circuit. The probe (26) is removable and is introduced into the circuit for testing purposes.

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First Claim