In the ever-evolving landscape of electronics, the demand for high-frequency reliability and performance continues to grow. Wangling's WL-CT338 PCB stands out as a remarkable solution, specifically engineered to meet these demands. This article delves into the intricate details of the WL-CT338, highlighting its composition, features, applications, and advantages over competing materials.
1. Introduction to WL-CT338
The WL-CT338 PCB is a sophisticated product made from organic polymer ceramic fiberglass cloth-covered copper clad laminates. Its thermosetting resin-based structure is meticulously composed of hydrocarbon resin, ceramics, and fiberglass cloth, which work together to achieve low-loss performance essential for high-frequency applications. The design of this PCB facilitates processing techniques similar to those used with FR4 materials, providing a user-friendly alternative to traditional PTFE materials.
Composition and Characteristics
The dielectric layer of the WL-CT338 combines hydrocarbon resin and composite ceramics, ensuring:
- Low Loss: Ideal for high-frequency designs, reducing signal degradation.
- High-Temperature Resistance: With a glass transition temperature (Tg) above 280°C, it is suitable for environments where thermal stability is crucial.
- Temperature Stability: Exhibits a stable temperature coefficient of dielectric constant, ensuring consistent performance across varying temperatures.
2. Key Features
Dielectric Properties
The WL-CT338 boasts impressive dielectric characteristics:
- Dielectric Constant: 3.38 at 10 GHz and 23°C, providing an excellent balance between signal speed and loss.
- Dissipation Factor: A low dissipation factor of 0.0029 at 10 GHz minimizes energy loss in high-frequency applications.
Thermal Management
Effective heat management is critical in electronic designs. The WL-CT338 features:
- Thermal Conductivity: A thermal conductivity rating of 0.7 W/MK ensures efficient heat dissipation, protecting sensitive components.
- Low Thermal Expansion: Matched copper CTE (Coefficient of Thermal Expansion) in X-axis (14 ppm/°C), Y-axis (16 ppm/°C), and Z-axis (50 ppm/°C) promotes structural integrity and reliability.
Moisture Resistance
With a moisture absorption rate of only 0.04%, the WL-CT338 is designed to withstand humid environments, maintaining electrical performance and longevity.
3. PCB Construction Details
It features a robust 2-layer rigid PCB stackup:
- Copper Layers: Two 35 μm copper layers sandwiching a 0.762 mm (30 mil) layer of WL-CT338 dielectric material.
- Dimensions: The board measures 68.5 mm x 108.3 mm with a finished thickness of 0.6 mm.
- Trace and Hole Specifications: Designed with a minimum trace/space of 4/6 mils and a minimum hole size of 0.3 mm, accommodating various component types.
Surface Finishing and Quality Assurance
The surface finish is achieved through immersion silver plating, complemented by green solder masks and white silkscreen for enhanced visibility. Each PCB undergoes a rigorous 100% electrical test prior to shipment, ensuring that every unit meets high-quality standards.
4. Applications
The WL-CT338 PCB is versatile, with applications spanning various industries:
- Telecommunications: Ideal for base station antennas and satellite communication systems, where signal integrity is paramount.
- Automotive: Used in radar, sensors, and navigation systems, contributing to the advancement of automotive technology.
- RF Technology: Supports power amplifiers and RF devices, ensuring reliable operation in high-frequency scenarios.
- WIMAX and Distributed Antennas: Suitable for modern wireless communication systems, enhancing connectivity and performance.
5. Why Choose WL-CT338?
The WL-CT338 PCB is not merely a product; it represents a commitment to quality, performance, and innovation. By choosing this PCB, manufacturers can benefit from:
- Ease of Processing: Similar processing techniques to FR4 materials streamline design and production.
- Consistent Performance: High stability in dielectric properties ensures reliable functionality in demanding applications.
- Global Availability: The WL-CT338 is available worldwide, making it accessible for diverse projects.
Conclusion
In summary, Wangling's WL-CT338 PCB is a cutting-edge solution for high-frequency designs, marrying advanced materials with robust construction. Its impressive features, combined with its versatility in applications, make it an excellent choice for engineers and manufacturers looking to enhance their electronic designs. As technology continues to advance, the WL-CT338 will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of high-frequency circuitry.