1. Introduction of RO4534

Developed as an extension of the successful RO4000 series, RO4534 High Frequency Laminates present a cost-effective solution for mobile infrastructure microstrip antenna applications. These laminates are specially designed to provide a controlled dielectric constant, low loss performance, and excellent passive intermodulation response, making them ideal for antenna designs.

One standout feature of RO4534 laminates is their compatibility with conventional FR-4 and high-temperature lead-free solder processing. Unlike traditional PTFE-based laminates, RO4534 Rogers laminates do not require special treatment for plated through-hole preparation. This quality not only simplifies the manufacturing process but also offers an affordable alternative to more conventional PTFE antenna technologies. Designers can now optimize the price and performance of their antennas without compromising on quality.

2. Features

RO4534 High Frequency PCBs encompass a range of essential features that make them a superior choice for antenna applications:

2.1) Dielectric Constant (DK): With a DK of 3.4 at 10GHz, RO4534 laminates provide excellent signal stability and predictability. This controlled dielectric constant ensures consistent performance in a wide range of applications.

2.2) Dissipation Factor: RO4534 laminates exhibit a dissipation factor of 0.0027 at 10GHz, meaning they enable low-loss transmission of signals. This feature contributes to the overall efficiency of the antenna system.

2.3) Passive Intermodulation (PIM) Response: The laminates offer a typical PIM value of -157 dBC, ensuring minimal interference and preserving signal integrity.

2.4) Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE): RO4534 laminates have an X-axis CTE of 11ppm/°C, a Y-axis CTE of 14ppm/°C, and a Z-axis CTE of 46ppm/°C. These values ensure excellent dimensional stability even in the face of temperature fluctuations, reducing the risk of delamination or other mechanical failures.

2.5) High Glass Transition Temperature (Tg): With a Tg greater than 280°C, RO4534 laminates exhibit superior thermal stability. This high Tg temperature ensures that the PCB retains its structural integrity even under challenging thermal conditions.

2.6) Low Moisture Absorption: RO4534 laminates have a low moisture absorption rate of 0.06%. This quality makes them resistant to environmental humidity, ensuring consistent performance over extended periods.

2.7) Lead-Free Process Compatibility: The laminates are fully compatible with lead-free solder processes, complying with modern environmental regulations.

3. Benefits

The utilization of RO4534 Rogers PCB material offers a multitude of benefits for antenna designers and manufacturers:

3.1) Low Loss, Low DK, and Low PIM Response: The superior electrical properties of RO4534 laminates, including low loss, low DK, and low PIM response, make them an ideal choice for a wide range of antenna applications. These laminates help maintain signal integrity and ensure efficient transmission throughout the antenna system.

3.2) Thermoset Resin System Compatibility: RO4534 laminates are designed to be compatible with standard PCB fabrication processes. This compatibility simplifies the manufacturing process, saving time and cost while maintaining the highest quality standards.

3.3) Excellent Dimensional Stability: These laminates offer outstanding dimensional stability, even in larger panel sizes. This quality helps manufacturers achieve greater yield and reduces the risk of warping or distortion during production and use.

3.4) Uniform Mechanical Properties: RO4534 laminates provide consistent and uniform mechanical properties, ensuring reliable results throughout the manufacturing and installation processes. This attribute makes them easy to handle and work with, enabling efficient production.

3.5) High Thermal Conductivity: The high thermal conductivity of RO4534 laminates allows for improved power handling. This capability makes them suitable for high-power applications, enhancing overall antenna performance.

3.6) Matching Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE): RO4534 laminates have a CTE that closely matches that of copper, minimizing stress between the laminate and the copper conductor. This quality ensures mechanical stability and extends the lifespan of the PCB antenna.

4. Stackup: double layer circuit

RO4534 30mil Rogers substrate PCBs are commonly employed as 2-layer rigid PCBs. The standard stackup of a RO4534 PCB is as follows:

Copper Layer 1: 35μm

Rogers 4534 Core: 0.762 mm

Copper Layer 2: 35μm

This stackup provides a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness, making it a popular choice for various applications.

5. Construction Details

Now let's explore the construction details of RO4534 PCBs:

Board Dimensions: The RO4534 PCB measures 73.2mm x 36.44mm, presenting a compact yet versatile form factor suitable for various antenna designs.

Minimum Trace/Space: The minimum trace width and spacing for RO4534 PCBs are 4 mils (0.1mm). This specification ensures precise and reliable signal transmission on the PCB.

Minimum Hole Size: The RO4534 PCB supports a minimum hole size of 0.3mm, providing flexibility in component placement and assembly.

No Blind Vias: The RO4534 PCB does not incorporate blind vias, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing cost.

Finished Board Thickness: The finished board thickness of the RO4534 PCB is 0.8mm, providing durability and rigidity while maintaining a relatively thin profile.

Finished Cu Weight: The outer copper layers of the RO4534 PCB have a thickness of 1oz (1.4 mils). This copper weight strikes a balance between electrical performance and cost-effectiveness.

Via Plating Thickness: The via plating thickness is 20μm, ensuring reliable connectivity and ease of soldering.

Surface Finish: The surface finish for RO4534 PCBs is Immersion Silver. This surface treatment offers excellent solderability, corrosion resistance, and electrical performance.

Top Silkscreen: The top silkscreen color is white, providing clear and visible markings for components, reference designators, and other information.

Bottom Silkscreen: The bottom silkscreen color is blue, enabling easy identification and assembly.

Top Solder Mask: Green

Bottom Solder Mask: Green.

100% Electrical Test: Each RO4534 PCB undergoes a rigorous 100% electrical test before shipment, ensuring that every board meets the highest quality standards.

6. PCB Statistics

The RO4534 Rogers PCB boasts the following statistics:

Components: The PCB supports up to 22 components, allowing for complex antenna designs and integration with various electronic systems.

Total Pads: There are a total of 58 pads on the RO4534 PCB, providing ample connectivity options for components and signal routing.

Thru-Hole Pads: The PCB has 31 thru-hole pads, enabling the use of through-hole components for enhanced stability and performance.

Top SMT Pads: The RO4534 PCB features 27 top surface mount technology (SMT) pads, allowing for easy integration of SMT components.

Bottom SMT Pads: The PCB does not include bottom SMT pads, making it suitable for single-sided SMT assembly when required.

Vias: The RO4534 PCB incorporates 41 vias, facilitating electrical connections between different layers and improving signal integrity.

Nets: The PCB supports 2 different nets, providing flexibility in signal routing and connectivity.

7. Artwork Supplied and Quality Standard

RO4534 PCBs are compatible with Gerber RS-274-X artwork, a widely used file format for PCB manufacturing. The adherence to IPC-Class-2 quality standards guarantees that RO4534 PCBs meet or exceed industry specifications regarding reliability and manufacturing quality.

8. Availability

RO4534 High-Frequency Laminates and RO4534 PCBs are available worldwide, ensuring that designers and manufacturers across the globe can access these cutting-edge products to meet their antenna design needs.

9. Typical Applications

RO4534PCB find extensive use in the following applications:

Cellular Infrastructure Base Station Antennas: RO4534 laminates provide the performance and reliability required for base station antennas used in cellular networks. The excellent electrical properties, low loss, and low PIM response make them ideal for high-demand communication systems.

WiMAX Antenna Networks: WiMAX networks require high-performance antennas that can handle high-frequency transmissions. RO4534 laminates offer low loss performance, ensuring optimal signal transmission over a wide range of frequencies.

10. Conclusion

In conclusion, RO4534 high frequency circuit board are an exceptional choice for antenna designers and manufacturers seeking high-performance, cost-effective solutions. With their controlled dielectric constant, low loss, and excellent passive intermodulation response, RO4534 30mil laminates ensure reliable signal transmission and superior electrical performance. Their compatibility, dimensional stability, thermal