RF Impedance Matching Using the Smith Chart

This course will introduce you to the Smith Chart and how it relates the reflection coefficient to impedances and admittances. You will start with an overview of how the Smith Chart circles are derived and what they mean, along with a basic orientation of short and open circuit terminations, inductances, capacitance, etc.

Next, using four basic rules along with software written by the instructor, you will be able to create matching networks on the chart almost immediately. The use of transmission lines is also explained with the aid of the software performing the calculations. Exercises utilizing the online Smith Chart web app are included.

Once you have gotten familiar with the layout of the chart and have some intuition from working with the aid of the software, we can move on to working with the chart more in-depth and perform the calculations manually. Examples in the lecture are followed by our exclusive online workbook exercises which integrate a concise review of formulas with interactive calculators to help you work on class exercises. A color PDF of the Smith Chart is available to download and print for use with pen and paper, or you can use it with your pen-based tablet to draw matching networks.