Method and apparatus for increasing performance in a waveguide-based spatial power combiner

A power combining array and method of increasing performance in a power combining array includes a waveguide enclosure having a plurality of slotline modules disposed therein. The slotline modules include input and output antennas that have varying physical characteristics to overcome differences in field intensity across the slotline module configuration and to account for phase changes. The varying physical characteristics include differences in longitudinal position, thickness, dielectric constant, and circuit element configurations. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.