Why is material selection critical in RF designs?
Because the base material isn’t just a carrier—it directly influences signal behavior. It affects parameters like propagation speed, phase shift, and signal loss (attenuation). Even the metal cladding and trace roughness can significantly impact performance.
In RF systems, passive elements like inductors and capacitors are often built into the PCB structure, making material properties even more essential. Tolerances—dielectric thickness, Dk, Df, trace width—must be tightly controlled. The goal: minimal variation.
RF-specific materials are engineered for consistent performance regardless of thickness. Unlike HSD materials (which may vary in resin content), RF laminates maintain a stable dielectric constant across all thicknesses, and they’re electrically tested for Dk and Df to ensure batch-to-batch consistency.
Watch the full webinar on choosing the right material for your RF PCB design.