Patent ID: 6873223
Filing Date: 2005-03-29
Classification: H01H,H01P

Abstract:
1. A ground switch for use in millimeter wave applications, the grounding switch comprising: a transmission line defining an RF input and an RF output at opposing ends; an RF contact formed on said transmission line; one or more ground contacts adapted to be connected to ground, spaced apart from said transmission line and an air bridge, for grounding said transmission line; an air bridge beam formed adjacent said transmission line, said air bridge beam rigidly connected to a substrate at each end, said beam spaced away from said RF contact and said one or more ground contacts in an at rest position and configured to contact said RF contact and said one or more ground contacts in an actuated position; and one or more control pads disposed adjacent said transmission line, said one or more control pads adapted to receive biasing voltage to cause said beam to deflect to said actuated position.