Radio frequency Printed Circuit Boards (RF PCBs) represent one of the fastest-growing sectors in PCB manufacturing, driven by the proliferation of wireless electronics, IoT devices, smartphones, and more. These boards are crucial for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals efficiently. Generally, any board operating above 100MHz qualifies as an RF PCB, while those operating above 2GHz are categorized as Microwave PCBs.
RF Printed Circuit Boards require specialized fabrication expertise to meet stringent quality standards. Due to their high-frequency nature, RF circuit boards demand precise design and manufacturing processes to handle issues such as noise sensitivity and tight impedance tolerances. At Technotronix, we possess extensive experience in RF PCB manufacturing and utilize advanced equipment tailored for this purpose.
Choosing the right PCB manufacturer for RF circuit boards is crucial to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Our capabilities include precise impedance control and noise reduction techniques, essential for maintaining signal integrity in high-frequency applications. Whether you need prototypes or large-scale production of radio frequency PCBs, we deliver solutions that meet exacting specifications and industry standards.
Technotronix specializes in RF PCBs, offering comprehensive manufacturing services that encompass design optimization, fabrication, and testing. Our commitment to quality and innovation ensures that radio frequency circuit boards manufactured by us are robust and dependable for diverse applications.
RF PCBs are complex, to say the least. This is on account of several reasons such as the fact that the heat within the board needs to be managed to ensure that it survives the thermal stresses. Also, spacing of the features has an important role to play. Besides you need specialized equipment such as Plasma etch machinery and laser direct imaging equipment. At Technotronix, we are fully equipped and have the following capabilities:
RF PCB Capabilities
| Features | Capabilities |
|---|---|
| Layer Count | 2-44 layers |
| Drill aspect ratio | 15:1 |
| Maximum Panel Size | 24″ x 30″ |
| Vias | Blind / Buried Vias. & Micro Vias Via In Pad with Fill Options (Conductive, Non-Conductive, Copper Plug) |
| Characteristic impedance of a transmission line | Controlled impedance |
| Minimum track and gaps | 0.75mm / 0.075 mm |
| Metal Core thickness | 58mm * 1010mm |
| Surface finish | HASL (Lead-free), OSP, ENIg, immersion tin, immersion silver. |
RF printed circuit boards (PCBs) offer significant advantages for MHz and GHz applications:
Technotronix specializes in custom circuit board fabrication services, including radio frequency PCB manufacturing. Our expertise in printed circuit board fabrication processes ensures high-quality RF PCBs that meet stringent performance requirements.
RF boards find a wide variety of applications in industries such as:
Automotive
ATE
Smart Phones
Computer Networking
systems
Wireless Technologies
Sensors
Robotics and Security
Telecommunication
At Technotronix, what differentiates us is that we have over 4 decades of experience in fabricating and assembling high quality radio frequency PCBs. We keep ourselves abreast of the latest technology and therefore offer industry-leading products. For RF PCB, specifically while some of the processing can be done on standard equipment, complex designs require specialized equipment. With our Plasma etch equipment we are well poised to take up most complex designs. In addition, it is our team of experts who has the relevant industry insights, who can guide you. What you do not have to do, therefore, is to reinvent the wheel. Our experts ensure that the radio frequency printed circuit boards stackup is designed so as to ensure signal integrity. Some of the aspects that they consider when it comes to RF circuit boards stackup design include:
Due attention is also paid to the choice of material used for the PCB, as also on the placement of traces, planes and component interconnections. In addition, our experts are conscious of the choice of the right substrate material as that adds to the performance of the RF PCBs. Some of the aspects that are taken into account in making the choice, include:
It is imperative, that you go with a radio frequency PCB manufacturer that understands these subtle nuances, that in turn go towards the seamless working of the RF circuit board.
Despite the strong focus on quality, an equally strong attention on quick turnaround times, ensures that your deadlines never go awry and that you have the advantage of quick-time-to-market.
The fact that we cater to both prototype quantities and full production runs, additionally endears us to our clients.
All you need to do is to get in touch with our team with your bespoke requirements and let us do the rest. From custom quotes to delivering the RF printed circuit boards as per your needs and offering support, we have you covered.
Typically, any board that operates above 100MHz is considered to be a RF printed circuit board.
While an RF PCB operates above 100 MHz, anything above 2 GHz is a Microwave PCB.
These would include:
Material used for the PCB
Placement of traces
Placement of planes
Component interconnections
RF PCBs can use a variety of different materials, although FR-4 and derivatives of FR-4 are common.
Due to the higher frequency used in RF PCB, temperatures within the board can fluctuate. It is important, therefore, that the material selection be appropriate.
The coefficient of thermal expansion, moisture absorption is some of the aspects to be mindful of.
Loss Tangents refers to a component in the multilayer board getting dense from the heat.
Absolutely! Do let us know your bespoke need for RF circuit boards.
Yes, you can count on us to cater to small quantities for prototypes.
Yes, absolutely.
Do you have any RF printed circuit boards requirements? Request a free Radio Frequency Printed Circuit Boards Fabrication quote. Alternatively, email BoM, Gerber files, and other required details at sales@technotronix.us or call us 714/630-9200.