Development of Graphical User Interface For Microwave Filter Design

that the original work is my own except as specified in the references and acknowledgements, and that the original work contained herein have not been undertaken or done by unspecified sources or persons. ABSTRACT Microwave filters play a sterling role in wireless communication systems and they are used to discriminate between wanted and unwanted signal frequencies. Designing microwave filter is a long process in going from the given specification through the synthesis and simulation to the final prototype. However, due to the unavailability of synthesized theoretical values of reactive elements in the market, the result may disagree with the expected output. Moreover, the existing software tools cover only conventional filter topologies; modern microwave filter topologies such as Ultra Wideband (UWB) filter are not yet incorporated into these software tools. In addition, they are costly and not easy to use. This research project aims at developing a low-cost, time-effective and a stand-alone graphical user interface (GUI) that will be used to design microwave filters. Throughout the projects, the main theory behind the technology of microwave filters, their generalized mathematical equations and the analysis of their different circuit topologies have been reviewed. This review helps to extract the necessary information needed for the design of microwave filters. Besides, the guiding principles and the underlying engineering factors for a successful and information-oriented GUI were also highlighted. To carry out the project, the High-Level GUI Development Environment (GUIDE) together with a structured programming approach have been used to design the GUI, and to program its related functionalities. The frequency responses are generated by using the generalized equation of each filter class and type; and by using their different circuit topologies (Shunt or Series topology). The GUI can also provide reactive element values from given specification. Moreover, the features for the design of ultra wideband (UWB) band-pass filter, capacitively coupled and combline filter are also incorporated into the stand-alone application. The finalized prototype will serve both industries and educational institutions. v ACKNOLEDGEMENT First and foremost, I would like to show and present my humble gratitude to Universiti Teknologi Petronas for putting in place this dynamic educational system for its students, to PETRONAS for its financial, physical and moral support throughout my degree programme in UTP. Moreover, I would like to express my gratitude to my project supervisor Dr. Wong Peng Wen for his valuable support, guidance and encouragement throughout my final year project. His knowledge, …