limitations to using Rogers 4350
The high-frequency performance of Rogers 4350 is comparable to that of FR4. However, there are some important differences that designers must take into account when selecting PCB materials. The most significant difference is the dissipation factor, which is greater for FR-4 boards than for those made from Rogers material. Typical values for FR-4 printed circuit board materials are around 0.020, while those for Rogers material are closer to 0.004. The higher dissipation factor of FR-4 materials is due to the fact that their dielectric constant increases with frequency. Rogers material has a consistent dissipation characteristic, making it ideal for use in RF microwave equipment.
The thermal stability of rogers 4350 is also a key advantage. This allows it to deliver high-speed performance necessary for many advanced applications. This makes it a great choice for wireless devices that need to operate at 60 GHz, such as antennas and RF front-end boards. Its low Z-axis CTE allows for reliable plated through-hole quality, even in harsh thermal shock environments.
Another feature of Rogers material is its good conductivity. This helps improve signal integrity by reducing electrical losses in the circuit board. This is especially important for high-speed designs that require large amounts of data transmission. It also reduces the size of the capacitors used in the circuit, which can improve efficiency.
Are there any limitations to using Rogers 4350
Rogers materials are ideally suited for high-speed electronics, including mobile application microwave point-to-point, automotive radar, and sensors. They are also suitable for military and aerospace components, where the demands of high-frequency circuits must be met. These requirements include robust operation in the presence of outgassing, thermal shifts, and radiation. The superior high-frequency performance of Rogers materials is a major reason why they are preferred for these applications.
In addition to their excellent performance, the low cost of Rogers material makes it a great choice for many applications. The material is also easy to work with, making it suitable for automated assembly and manufacturing processes. Its high insulating properties provide protection for users, equipment, and the environment. It is also durable and resists corrosion, which means it can be used in harsh environments.
PCB manufacturers can fabricate a wide variety of Rogers materials to meet design requirements. Designers can choose the best option based on electrical, mechanical, thermal, and cost objectives. It is important to check material inventory and lead times to avoid excessive delays. It is also important to evaluate whether requirements may evolve in future design iterations to require a more sophisticated material.
While both Rogers 4350B and Megtron 6 are suited for the requirements of high-frequency circuits, Rogers material offers several advantages over Megtron 6. It is easier to work with, as it can be cut with standard aluminum or pressed phenolic entry/exit materials. Standard etch/strip and acid copper processes are compatible with the material, and it bonds well to direct screened and photo-imageable solder masks. It can also be drilled with CO2, UV, or a combination of both lasers, and the surface can be cleaned using either alkaline permanganate or CF4/O2 plasma.