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Optimizing your RF and microwave PCB layout
When designing RF and microwave PCBs, you need to consider operating frequencies and choose materials that offer low losses. The frequency range of RF is 10 MHz to 1 GHz, and microwave is above 1 GHz.
RF circuits are prone to EMI, crosstalk, ringing, and reflections. To avoid these issues in your design, maintain consistent conductor dimensions to achieve uniform impedance. To reduce the current return path, incorporate solid ground planes right below the signal layer. This will increase the signal quality.
Consider distributed and lumped elements while designing transmission lines. Generally, a 50-ohm coplanar structure is used for minimum loss and maximum power transfer.
A signal experiences an impedance discontinuity when it passes through a via. If you’re stitching ground vias on the trace, understand the tradeoff.
Always partner with a capable RF and microwave PCB manufacturer and seek their assistance to create an efficient layout.
Tools and DFM check for your RF and microwave designs
Sierra Circuits offers advanced PCB design tools like the Material Selector, Stackup Designer, Impedance Calculator, and Trace Width Calculator that can expedite your design process.
Our design experts can assist you in building an efficient stack-up with impedance requirements. We conduct an advanced DFM review and CAD inspection to ensure your board can be manufactured successfully.
Sierra Circuits has two state-of-the-art facilities for RF PCB fabrication to meet both prototype and high-volume requirements. We also source and stock a wide range of materials and components for you to choose from.
We are certified to build your RF and microwave boards that adhere to industry standards such as:
- IPC Manufacturers Qualification Profile (MQP)
- IPC-A-600
- IPC-6012 standards
- ISO 9001:2015
- AS9100D – military and aerospace
- NADCAP
- ISO 13485:2016 – medical devices
- Mil-Spec and DLA approved for 4350 and hybrid constructions
- ITAR registered
- Compliant with RoHS/REACH standards
Sierra Circuits supports IPC-2581.
IPC-2581 stands as a valuable standard in PCB fabrication, streamlining the exchange of design data. This open and vendor-neutral format enhances communication efficiency by providing a comprehensive platform for sharing crucial details like layer stack-up and drill specifications. Embracing IPC-2581 leads to improved collaboration, minimizing errors during data transfer and contributing to the overall precision and reliability of the PCB fabrication process.
Product Promise
We have skilled and experienced design experts to help you optimize your RF and microwave PCB layouts to achieve desired functionalities with excellent signal integrity. You can count on us to fabricate and deliver high-quality boards that meet your design, cost, and market time requirements.
Sierra Circuits’ high-frequency PCB capabilities
We pay close attention to every detail of your designs and customize our RF PCB manufacturing process to build high quality boards.
Design assistance
Extensive support from PCB design experts, from material selection, layer arrangement, to layout design. We can design your entire board or help you at certain stages.
RF and microwave PCB fabrication
We offer a sodium etch hole treatment process and full-body gold plating up to 120µ”. Soft gold without nickel or ENEPIG surface finishes for enhanced board protection.
Component sourcing and stocking
We source and stock components such as RF connectors, filters, and amplifiers from reliable manufacturers across the globe. Our engineers will suggest alternatives for obsolete components.
Trusted by innovators
Engineers at the world’s most innovative companies choose Sierra Circuits for the highest quality rigid PCB manufacturing and assembly, right here in the USA.
Reliable PCBs for allRF and microwave applications
Whether you’re a designer building boards for communication systems or a large-scale consumer electronics manufacturer, Sierra Circuits fabricates reliable RF and microwave boards that fulfil your high-frequency operation requirements.
IDEAL FOR:
- Wireless communication gadgets such as smartphones, tablets, and routers
- Satellite communication, radar, and electronic warfare systems
- High-frequency signal processing in health care devices
- Automotive electronics such as collision avoidance systems, GPS navigation, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
Manufacturing Equipment at Sierra Circuits
Our 70,000 sqft state-of-the-art campus in the heart of Silicon Valley contains the most advanced equipment required for the manufacture and assembly of your PCBs. Whether you’re looking for standard quick turn PCBs or boards with the tightest tolerances, made from exotic metals, there’s a reason Sierra Circuits leads the industry in quality and performance.
Fabrication, Procurement, & Assembly. PCBs fully assembled in as fast as 5 days.
- Bundled together in an entirely-online process
- Reviewed and tested by Engineers
- DFA & DFM Checks on every order
- Shipped from Silicon Valley in as fast as 5 days
Fabrication. Procurement & Assembly optional. Flexible and transparent for advanced creators.
- Rigid PCBs, built to IPC-6012 Class 2 Specs
- 2 mil (0.002″) trace / space
- DFM Checks on every order
- 24-hour turn-times available
Complex technology, with a dedicated CAM Engineer. Stack-up assistance included.
- Complex PCB requirements
- Mil-Spec & Class 3 with HDI Features
- Blind & Buried Vias
- Flex & Rigid-Flex boards