High-speed automatic antenna tuning units

The analysis, design and tuning of adjustable impedance matching networks in high-speed automatic ATUs are studied. The problems concerning performance assessment, impedance matching domain analysis, element value range determination and binary tuning element arrangement are addressed. The Q-based design method is used with the loaded Q reflecting harmonic performance and parasitic loss effects on the standing wave ratio or reflection coefficient. We introduce tuning strategies and fast optimization tuning algorithms and show that genetic algorithms are potentially suitable for the high-speed automatic tuning problem. We also consider microcomputer controlled ATUs and point out that impedance matching networks that are both configurable in the structure and tunable in elements may be more competent for both high tuning speed and high tuning accuracy than other arrangements.