Abstract: A novel symmetrical microwave power sensor based on MEMS technology is presented. In this power sensor, the left section inputs the microwave power, while the right section inputs the DC power. Because of its symmetrical structure, this power sensor provides more accurate microwave power measurement capability without mismatch uncertainty and temperature drift. The loss caused by the microwave signal is simulated in this power sensor. This power sensor is designed and fabricated using GaAs MMIC technology. And it is measured in the frequency range up to 20 GHz with an input power in the 0–80 mW range. Over the 80 mW dynamic range, the sensitivity can achieve about 0.2 mV/mW. The difference between the input power in the two sections is below 0.1% for an equal output voltage. In short, the key aspect of this power sensor is that the microwave power measurement is replaced with a DC power measurement.

Key words: symmetrical