This book is Volume I of a new series by Springer entitled Topics in Heterocyclic Chemistry. At present, there are six such monographs in this series, the overall scope of which is to cover current trends in heterocyclic chemistry . Given the importance of heterocylic natural products and heterocyclic scaffolds in the realm of medicinal chemistry and drug discovery, an up-todate series on this subject is well warranted, and a survey of the recent impact of microwave-assisted synthesis on this venerable field is both timely and needed.

In the high frequency world, the passive technologies required to realize RF and microwave functionality present distinctive challenges. SAW filters, dielectric resonators, MEMS, and waveguide do not have counterparts in the low frequency or digital environment. Even when conventional lumped components can be used in high frequency applications, their behavior does not resemble that observed at lower frequencies. RF and Microwave Passive and Active Technologies provides detailed information about a wide range of component technologies used in modern RF and microwave systems.

This contributed volume presents a comprehensive discussion of the design of passive circuits, solid state devices, and microwave solid state circuits. Because this is a very diversified area, the subject can only be covered well by a team of authors who are specialists in different topics.