Analog Intuition

Part 6 · Impedance Matching

Matching lab

One idea: put the strokes together — use the full Smith matcher as your workbench.

Interactive checklist

Each task opens the live tool — use examples, drag, and auto-tune

1 · See a good L-section

Open the default L-section match example. Note red load → purple/blue arcs → green center. Drag an endpoint; watch the component value and S11.

Open Smith matcher →

2 · Unmatched vs matched

Click Unmatched load, then L-section match again. Same Z_load — network is the difference. Compare return loss in the metrics card.

3 · Series vs shunt motion

Use Series L (cancel X) and Shunt C only. Confirm const-R vs const-G behavior from Part 4. Toggle Impedance (Z) / Admittance (Y) grids.

4 · Broadband idea

Open Broadband 1–2 GHz. Hover the S11 chart — crosshairs show f and S11. Goal was RL ≳ 15 dB across the band, not only at one f.

5 · Device Z(f)

Device only shows a datasheet-style table (no network). Device + L-match adds a narrowband fix. Amber trail = Γ(f), not a matching stroke.

6 · Auto-tune your topology

Load any multi-element example, detune a slider, then hit Auto-tune. Values jump; sliders recenter. Topology stays what you chose.

Full workbench (Z(f) import, export PNG, AI JSON instructions):

Smith Chart Impedance Matcher Series outline
\[ \underbrace{Z_L(f)}_{\text{measure / table}} \;\longrightarrow\; \underbrace{\text{topology}}_{\text{L / C / TL}} \;\longrightarrow\; \underbrace{\text{tune}}_{\text{drag / sliders / Auto-tune}} \;\longrightarrow\; \underbrace{S_{11}(f)}_{\text{check band}} \]

The one idea

Matching is not a single formula — it’s a short sequence of allowed moves (Parts 4–5) that improves Γ at the frequencies you care about. The Smith matcher is the sandbox for that craft.

Where to go next