Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services


Thermal management for high-frequency PCBs

21 February 2018 Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services

In the world of complex RF/microwave printed circuit boards (PCB), where SWaP (size, weight and power) are critical to future performance, thermal management and the ability to keep modules and systems efficient is becoming an increasing problem.

In response, RF/microwave GaN (gallium nitride) amplifiers are becoming more efficient and are now available as SMT devices. The key to having an efficient amplifier is ensuring the presence of a good ground plane beneath the device, and the ability to manage the excess heat that is generated. One of the best ways of achieving this is to use thermal ground vias directly below the amplifier. The size and volume of each plated through-via can be calculated to give the most efficient method of thermal control.

Teledyne Labtech has developed a method whereby it can fill all the ground plated through-via holes with copper and then over-plate the hole. This gives a perfectly flat finish and has the added benefit of ensuring that the vias are filled and thereby reducing the risk of air voids beneath the surface mount components.

Should the filled via not offer sufficient thermal management, Teledyne Labtech can offer a copper coin PCB, metal-cored PCB and metal-backed PCB. The edges of the PCB can then be exposed and used as a ‘cold rail’ and clamped to the chassis. Where PCBs require large BGA or LSI devices, again filled, plated through-vias are perfect for via-in-pad requirements.

For more information contact Conical Technologies, +27 (0)66 231 1900, daniel.haywood@conical.co.za, www.conical.co.za



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Weller limited Black Edition soldering station
Testerion Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Weller’s WE1010 Black Edition Soldering Station is a premium limited-edition soldering station.

Read more...
Quick and easy shielding
Würth Electronics South Africa Electronics Technology Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Würth Elektronik expands its EMC product portfolio with nanocrystalline WE-FNCS sheets.

Read more...
Smarter local buying could reboot South Africa’s manufacturing sector
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
With smarter localisation, clearer procurement rules and a more deliberate industrial strategy, public spending could again become a powerful engine for rebuilding factories, expanding supply chains and restoring confidence in South Africa as a place that makes things.

Read more...
The effect of seasonal changes on ESD performance in South Africa
Actum Editor's Choice Circuit & System Protection Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Electrostatic discharge performance is influenced by several environmental factors, with relative humidity being one of the most important. This is particularly relevant in South Africa, where seasonal changes can result in significant differences in humidity levels.

Read more...
High precision in-line conformal coating inspection system
MyKay Tronics Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Conformal coating is widely used to protect electronics from moisture or other environmental hazards. It is critical to know if coatings are properly applied; covering what is meant to be covered and not covering what should be exposed.

Read more...
Setting a new benchmark for high-power DC load testing
Conical Technologies Test & Measurement Power Electronics / Power Management
The new ITECH IT8900G/L high-speed, high-power DC electronic load offers a powerful combination of speed, scalability, precision and high-power density.

Read more...
Soldering day highlights
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
JAPAN UNIX has published a new event report and highlight video from their UNIX SOLDERING DAY 2026 in Hungary. This event reflects on their commitment to supporting manufacturers not only through soldering automation systems, but also through technical education, live demonstrations, hands-on training, and practical engineering know-how.

Read more...
Clearing the Static: Electrostatic Discharge
Actum Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
A cordless ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) wrist strap does not work by grounding the person in the same way as a traditional wired wrist strap. Instead, it works by reducing or balancing the static charge on your body so that you are less likely to discharge electricity into sensitive electronic components.

Read more...
Engineering trust in South Africa’s SMT sector
ZETECH ONE Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
From a small Johannesburg start-up to a trusted SMT technology partner, Zetech One has spent four decades helping South African electronics manufacturers improve production quality, efficiency and reliability.

Read more...
The new reality of PCB material supply
Jemstech Editor's Choice Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
How resilient manufacturing strategies are helping OEMs navigate a changing global supply chain.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved