A software demonstrator for teaching transmission line-based microwave devices

Integrating transmission line-based microwave devices into an radio frequency electronics curriculum poses significant challenges. Their analytical complexity, combined with the extensive theoretical background required to understand wave propagation in transmission lines, makes it harder to incorporate them effectively into coursework. This article presents a software-assisted pedagogical approach for three fundamental microwave devices: the Wilkinson power divider, quadrature hybrid, and rat–race coupler, supported by a purpose-built classroom demonstrator. Our approach guides students through several steps. First, they derive the device responses using transmission-line circuit analysis. Next, they formulate and solve a linear system of equations. Lastly, they use a simulation tool for both frequency- and time-domain evaluation. This application enables students to simulate device responses from any port while terminating the remaining ports with arbitrary load impedances, thus supporting interactive and exploratory learning. We discuss practical case studies that help students examine device behavior under standard and nonideal operating conditions. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of fundamental concepts by engaging students in hands-on validation of frequency- and time-domain results. Finally, we propose a laboratory framework that includes microstrip devices and a vector network analyzer calibration kit. This setup allows students to directly compare experimental results with the responses predicted by simulation, further strengthening the connection between theory, modeling, and practical experimentation.