Material Overview
RO4360G2™ laminates are high-frequency materials with a dielectric constant (Dk) of 6.15 ± 0.15, designed for RF, microwave, and high-power applications. They are compatible with FR-4 processing methods, offering a cost-effective and efficient manufacturing process.
Drilling
- Drill Bits: Use carbide drill bits optimized for ceramic-filled materials.
- Parameters:
- Speed: 150,000–200,000 RPM
- Feed Rate: 2–3 mil/rev
- Retract Rate: 500–600 IPM
- Hole Cleaning:
- Perform plasma desmear or chemical cleaning to ensure debris-free and smooth hole walls.
Lamination
- Prepregs: Use RO4450F™ prepreg for multilayer builds to ensure compatibility.
- Parameters:
- Pressure: 200–400 psi
- Temperature: 425–450°F (220–230°C)
- Dwell Time: 60 minutes at peak temperature
- Maintain even pressure distribution to avoid warping or delamination.
Etching
- Use standard copper etching processes.
- Maintain tight process controls to ensure accurate line widths and spacing, especially critical for high-frequency designs.
Solder Mask Application
- Preparation: Thoroughly clean the surface to remove contaminants.
- Mask Type: Select solder masks compatible with high-frequency laminates for best adhesion and performance.
Soldering
- Compatibility: Supports lead-free and traditional soldering processes.
- Reflow Profile: Use controlled profiles to avoid exceeding the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the laminate (>280°C).
Surface Finishes
RO4360G2 laminates are compatible with various finishes, including:
- Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold (ENIG)
- Immersion Silver or Tin
- Organic Solderability Preservative (OSP)
Thermal Management
- Thermal Conductivity: 0.8 W/m·K
- Considerations:
- Use thermal vias or heat sinks for high-power designs to enhance heat dissipation.
Storage and Handling
- Storage Conditions: Store laminates in a cool, dry environment to prevent moisture absorption.
- Handling Precautions: Avoid bending or flexing to prevent mechanical damage or cracking.
Applications
- RF Power Amplifiers
- Microwave Circuits
- Automotive Radar Systems
- High-Frequency Filters
Best Practices
- Test processes on sample boards before full-scale production.
- Use precision tools and equipment to maintain dimensional accuracy.
- Validate process parameters to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
