What Real Match Does
After Auto Matching synthesizes ideal L/C values (e.g., L=3.5 nH, C=6.8 pF), Real Match replaces these with actual Murata catalog components — searching for the closest standard values and re-running the simulation using each component's real S-parameter data (which includes Q factor, self-resonant frequency, and package inductance).
Why Real Components Matter
Ideal 3.5 nH inductor: perfect inductance, Q=∞, no parasitics
Real Murata LQP15MN3N3B00 (3.3 nH, 0402):
Q = 55 at 900 MHz (ESR ≈ 0.34 Ω)
Self-resonant frequency SRF ≈ 5.2 GHz
Package capacitance ≈ 0.08 pF (parallel with inductance)
DC resistance ≈ 0.25 Ω
Effect on matching: IL increases ~0.15 dB, resonance shifts slightly
Without Real Match: you can't see this degradation until you build the PCB
Step-by-Step Real Match Usage
- Complete Auto Matching: load device .s2p or .s1p, tap "Auto Match"
- Verify ideal simulation: S11 < −10 dB at target frequency
- Tap "Real Match" button → RF View:
- Searches Murata catalog for nearest L value in E6/E12 standard series
- Searches for nearest C value (C0G series preferred)
- Loads each component's measured S2P file
- Re-runs circuit simulation with real component data
- View updated S11: compare ideal vs real component response
- If degradation is unacceptable: try adjacent component values (tap +/− to step)
Interpreting Real Match Results
| Change after Real Match | Likely Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| S11 dip shifts in frequency | Component value difference from ideal | Adjust component value (±one step) |
| S11 worsens (less deep dip) | Low inductor Q reduces match | Use higher-Q component (Murata LQP series) |
| New resonance appears | SRF of inductor at higher freq | Move operating freq or choose different series |
| S11 barely changes | Low-Q matching design, tolerant | Proceed — design is robust |
RF View Real Match: Automatically substitutes ideal LC values with Murata catalog components and re-simulates with real component S-parameters. Essential step before PCB assembly. Free on Android.