Extending the frequency limits of non-contact acoustic generation

This work focuses on the GHz frequency limit of the Magnetic Acoustic Resonator Sensor, and how the instrumentation can be modified to support a unique function: the acoustic spectroscopy of interfacial biological films. The optimization route we chose, involved careful characterization of the spiral coil in terms of its S22 reflectivity, and electrical characterisation of the transmission line linking it to our MARS detector. Two specific problems were identified with this method: the tendency for the larger coil to experience parasitic behaviour and the presence of quarter wave reflections in short sections of twisted wire feeder. We found both of these effects compromised high frequency performance. © 2007 IEEE.