Rogers RO4350B is a high-performance PCB material widely used in RF and microwave circuits. Its unique properties make it particularly well-suited for high-frequency and high-power applications. Below are the main characteristics of RO4350B:
1. Dielectric Constant and Stability
RO4350B has a dielectric constant (Dk) that remains stable at various frequencies, typically around 3.48. This stable dielectric constant allows consistent signal transmission speed, avoiding frequency drift and signal distortion. The low tolerance of the dielectric constant enables more accurate impedance control, enhancing circuit performance and reliability.
2. Low Dissipation Factor
The dissipation factor (Df) of RO4350B is around 0.0037 at high frequencies. A low Df indicates minimal signal loss during transmission, reducing attenuation. This property makes RO4350B ideal for RF and microwave applications requiring high-fidelity and efficient signal transmission, such as wireless communication systems and satellite communications. The low Df ensures minimal energy loss, maintaining signal integrity.
3. Coefficient of Thermal Expansion
RO4350B exhibits excellent thermal expansion properties, with a coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) close to that of copper. This characteristic ensures dimensional stability under varying temperatures, preventing delamination and structural deformation. This is particularly important for multilayer PCBs, where a low CTE helps maintain electrical connectivity, ensuring long-term reliability.
4. Thermal Conductivity and Heat Dissipation
RO4350B has good thermal conductivity, efficiently dissipating heat from high-power devices and preventing circuit overheating. This capability is critical for high-power applications such as RF power amplifiers and radar systems, ensuring device stability and safety.
5. Low Moisture Absorption
Moisture absorption is a key factor affecting the electrical performance of PCB materials in humid environments. RO4350B has an exceptionally low moisture absorption rate, typically below 0.1%, allowing it to maintain stable electrical properties even in high-humidity conditions. This feature is particularly valuable for maritime communication devices, weather radar, and systems operating in variable environments.
6. Flame Retardancy
RO4350B complies with the UL 94V-0 flame retardancy standard, indicating that it has excellent fire-resistant properties. This is crucial for safety, especially in military and aerospace applications that may face extreme conditions. The flame retardancy of RO4350B helps protect both equipment and personnel.
7. Processability and Manufacturing Efficiency
A notable advantage of RO4350B is its processability, similar to that of standard FR-4 PCB materials, without the need for special treatment steps. This characteristic makes it easy to integrate RO4350B into existing production lines, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs. Additionally, the material performs well in drilling and plating processes, minimizing manufacturing defects.
8. Mechanical Strength and Stability
RO4350B is made from a ceramic-filled hydrocarbon resin system reinforced with woven glass fabric, providing high mechanical strength and dimensional stability. This allows it to maintain structural integrity in environments subject to vibration and impact, making it suitable for applications that demand high mechanical durability, such as mobile communication base stations and aerospace equipment.
9. Electrical Performance Across a Wide Frequency Range
RO4350B exhibits excellent electrical performance in high-frequency ranges, making it effective for applications from microwave to millimeter-wave frequencies. The material’s consistent performance at both low and high frequencies meets the needs of high-precision applications, including radar antennas and millimeter-wave sensors.
10. Environmental Compliance
RO4350B meets environmental standards and is free from hazardous substances, supporting lead-free soldering processes. This makes it suitable for global markets, complying with European RoHS and REACH standards, ensuring minimal impact on the environment and human health during manufacturing and use.
In conclusion, with its low dielectric constant, low loss, excellent thermal properties, and mechanical strength, Rogers RO4350B is an ideal choice for high-frequency circuit design. It finds applications in wireless communication, radar systems, satellite communications, and high-frequency sensors.