Terminology » RF Components » Hybrid Ring S-Matrix Explained

Hybrid Ring S-Matrix Explained

rf s-parameter hybrid ring rat race coupler

This page describes the Hybrid Ring S-Matrix (scattering matrix). It also covers the basics of the Hybrid Ring along with its S-matrix.

What is a Hybrid Ring?

A Hybrid Ring is a 180° hybrid having 4 ports, as shown in the figure below. It’s also commonly called a hybrid ring coupler.

Hybrid Ring

Figure 1: Hybrid Ring

As shown, it has four ports which are λ/4 (lambda/4) away from each other in the top half of the hybrid ring (i.e., between ports P1 and P2, P2 and P3, P3 and P4).

In the bottom half of the hybrid ring, ports P1 and P4 are 3*λ/4 wavelengths away from each other. It is also known as a rat race coupler.

Hybrid Ring S-Matrix | Hybrid Ring Applications

The Hybrid Ring S-matrix is as follows:

Rat Race Coupler S-Matrix