World's smallest BAW filter

25 July 2007 Circuit & System Protection

In the market for GSM capable products, modularisation of RF (radio frequency) components is continually progressing, not least of all filters.

Currently, multipackage modules containing RF IC plus a filter are under development. In order to support such modules, the mould must be of a high tolerance and the filter device must have reliability as high as that of the IC. By its very nature, the SAW (surface acoustic wave) filter requires a structure to maintain the cavity space and therefore it is considerably difficult to achieve downsizing and low-profiling of such a device, whilst fulfilling all the above requirements. In an effort to overcome this challenge, the industry has been engaged in the development of a filter utilising FBAR (film bulk acoustic resonator) technology, however there exist many issues with this technology. For instance, the difficulty of realising an unbalanced-input/balanced-output type filter.

Now, Murata has successfully developed a simple, planar-type device by adopting the BAW (boundary acoustic wave), designated the SAFAM series. High tolerance and high reliability of the mould and IC have been achieved, enabling the commercialisation of a filter with all the characteristics of a SAW filter, and is claimed by the manufacturer to be the world's smallest filter.

The filter measures only 0,8 mm x 0,6 mm x 0,365 mm, which is a 69% reduction in surface area compared to other conventional products. As for the terminal area, lead-free solder BGA (ball grid array) is used since it is most suitable for high-density packaging.

When mounting the conventional SAW filter on the IC embedded module, module inspections such as addition of an under-fill were required in order to achieve reliability as high as the IC. However, as this filter is a highly reliable device, the module inspection process can be simplified and the development period may be shortened.

This filter is compliant with GSM850, GSM900 (EGSM), GSM1800 (DCS) and GSM1900 (PCS).

Further reading:

Clearing the Static: The importance of ESD audits
Actum Circuit & System Protection
An ESD audit is the first step in establishing an effective static control programme in the workplace, and will help identify vulnerable areas and potentially hazardous static zones that require improvement.

Read more...

---

EMI shielding materials application guide
Circuit & System Protection
TE Connectivity’s shielding solutions include electrically conductive elastomers, gaskets, knitted wire mesh, oriented wire, EMI shielding ventilation panels, shielded window, cable shielding and shielding components.

Read more...

---

Clearing the Static: ESD containers and packaging
Actum Circuit & System Protection
         Vacuum forming ESD Electronic components can be damaged by electrostatic discharges. To protect against such damage, electronic assembly parts are often transported or stored in vacuum formed component ...

Read more...

---

Electrostatic discharge chairs
Actum Circuit & System Protection
An ESD chair forms an integral part of grounding within the electrostatic discharge protected area to prevent potential damage to products.

Read more...

---

Conductive ESD footwear
Actum Circuit & System Protection
Conductive ESD footwear is used in conjunction with other grounding devices, such as a wrist strap, cord, and ESD surface mats, to provide a continuous path to ground.

Read more...

---

Clearing the Static: The importance of cleaning in ESD control
Actum Circuit & System Protection
To prevent Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) damage to sensitive electronic assemblies and components, all production, handling, packaging, and storage must take place in an ESD-protected environment.

Read more...

---

Clearing the Static: Staying grounded
Actum Circuit & System Protection
To maintain reliable electrostatic discharge control, regular testing and accurate measurement are essential, with grounding products and ESD testing equipment being vital.

Read more...

---

Smarter protection without disruption
NewElec Pretoria Circuit & System Protection
Designed for operations still running without integrated automation, NewElec’s retrofit-friendly systems let you upgrade performance and safety without overhauling your entire network.

Read more...

---

Circuit breaker for reliable, compliant protection
RS South Africa Circuit & System Protection
Legrand’s low-voltage power distribution portfolio encompasses the DX3 range of miniature circuit breakers, designed to deliver dependable protection in residential, commercial and industrial installations.

Read more...

---

Reducing noise on power supply lines
Future Electronics Circuit & System Protection
Murata has introduced the EMIFIL ESD Series Noise Filters, a breakthrough solution engineered for superior noise suppression and enhanced electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection.

Read more...

---