What is the difference between Rogers 4003c and 4350b?

Introduction to Rogers 4003c and 4350b Materials

Rogers Corporation manufactures several high-performance circuit materials used in demanding RF and microwave applications. Two of their most popular laminate materials are Rogers 4003c and Rogers 4350b. While both are excellent choices for many High-frequency PCB designs, there are some key differences between 4003c and 4350b in terms of their properties and performance.

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Rogers 4003c vs 4350b, comparing their specifications, advantages, typical applications, and more. By understanding the differences between these two premier high-frequency laminates, you can select the optimal material for your specific PCB project.

Overview of Rogers 4003c

What is Rogers 4003c?

Rogers 4003c is a hydrocarbon ceramic laminate material reinforced by woven glass. It offers excellent high-frequency performance with low dielectric loss, good Thermal conductivity, and maintained stability of dielectric constant over a wide range of frequencies and temperatures.

Some key features of Rogers 4003c include:

• Low dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.38 at 10 GHz
• Low dissipation factor (Df) of 0.0027 at 10 GHz
• Stable Dk across temperatures from -55°C to +125°C
• Reliable thermal conductivity of 0.64 W/m/K

Advantages of Using Rogers 4003c

There are several benefits to selecting Rogers 4003c for high-frequency PCB applications:

1. Excellent electrical properties: The low and stable Dk and Df enable consistent high performance at RF, microwave, and millimeter wave frequencies. This allows you to design controlled impedance transmission lines with predictable signal integrity.

2. Reliable thermal management: The good thermal conductivity of 4003c helps efficiently transfer heat away from power-dissipating components. This improves reliability and allows higher power handling.

3. Versatile processability: 4003c is compatible with standard PCB fabrication processes like shearing, drilling, and plated through-hole. The laminate has a high Tg of >280°C for surviving assembly.

4. Economical: While a high-end material, 4003c provides a cost-effective option compared to some other RF laminates. The balance of performance and price makes it a popular choice.

Common Applications for Rogers 4003c

Typical uses for Rogers 4003c span a variety of high-frequency designs, such as:

• Cellular base station antennas and power amplifiers
• RF/microwave filters, couplers, and combiners
• Aerospace and defense radar systems
• 5G wireless infrastructure
• Automotive radar sensors
• High-speed digital designs

Overview of Rogers 4350b

What is Rogers 4350b?

Rogers 4350b is a thermoset laminate material featuring a ceramic-filled hydrocarbon resin system reinforced by woven glass. It provides even lower loss for higher frequencies compared to 4003c.

Key attributes of Rogers 4350b include:

• Ultra-low loss tangent (Df) of 0.0037 at 10 GHz
• Dielectric constant (Dk) of 3.48 at 10 GHz
• Stable Dk maintained up to 40 GHz
• High thermal conductivity of 0.69 W/m/K
• Halogen-free for environmental safety

Advantages of Using Rogers 4350b

4350b delivers several unique benefits for demanding high-frequency applications:

1. Best-in-class low loss: The extremely low Df of 4350b minimizes signal loss, especially at higher frequencies into the millimeter wave bands. This enables higher performance and greater signal reach.

2. CAF resistant: 4350b provides superb resistance to conductive anodic filament (CAF) growth, a reliability risk between vias and plated through-holes. The CAF resistance improves long-term reliability.

3. Lead-free assembly compatible: With a high Tg of 325°C and robust thermal stability, 4350b is an excellent match for lead-free solder processes. It handles the higher temperatures without degradation.

4. Halogen-free: Unlike some other high-speed laminates, 4350b is halogen-free (no brominated or chlorinated compounds). This improves safety and environmental friendliness.

Common Applications for Rogers 4350b

4350b excels in applications requiring the lowest possible losses at high frequencies, such as:

• mmWave 5G infrastructure
• Satellite communications systems
• Military RF and phased array radar
• High-performance test and measurement equipment
• Advanced automotive and aerospace electronics
• Any designs sensitive to signal loss/attenuation

Comparing the Properties of 4003c vs 4350b

To summarize the differences between Rogers 4003c and 4350b, refer to this comparison table of their key properties:

As shown, 4350b delivers even lower loss tangent and higher thermal conductivity than 4003c. It also provides superior CAF resistance and halogen-free composition. However, 4003c maintains a slightly lower dielectric constant.

How to Select Between 4003c and 4350b

With these differences in mind, here are some guidelines for choosing between Rogers 4003c vs 4350b for your application:

Consider Rogers 4003c if:

• You need excellent but not extreme high-frequency performance
• Minimizing dielectric constant is a priority
• Your budget is more limited

Consider Rogers 4350b if:

• Lowest possible high-frequency losses are required
• CAF resistance is critical for long-term reliability
• Lead-free assembly and halogen-free are priorities
• Budget allows for a premium high-performance material

Of course, always evaluate the specific electrical, thermal, and mechanical requirements of your application. Consult with your PCB manufacturer on the availability and processability of each material.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What frequencies are Rogers 4003c and 4350b suitable for?
   Both materials are excellent for RF, microwave, and millimeter wave designs. 4003c is typically used up to 30 GHz, while 4350b maintains performance past 40 GHz and beyond.

2. Are 4003c and 4350b both compatible with regular PCB fabrication?
   Yes, both materials are workable with standard processes like drilling, routing, and plating. However, 4003c may be slightly easier to process overall.

3. Can I use 4003c and 4350b together in the same design?
   Yes, it’s possible to use both materials together. For example, you could use 4003c for most layers and 4350b selectively for layers with the highest frequency traces.

4. Is the cost difference between 4003c and 4350b significant?
   4350b does command a higher price than 4003c due to its more advanced resin system and lower loss properties. However, the cost delta is usually reasonable considering the performance advantages 4350b delivers.

5. Are both 4003c and 4350b available in the same thicknesses and cladding types?
   Rogers offers an extensive portfolio of thicknesses and cladding options for both materials. 4003c is offered in a slightly wider range of thicknesses down to 5 mil (0.13mm), while 4350b is more focused on thicknesses of 10 mil (0.25mm) and up.

Conclusion

In summary, Rogers 4003c and 4350b are both top-tier materials for high-frequency PCB designs, but with some important differences. 4003c provides an excellent balance of performance and value, with low loss and CAF resistance. 4350b takes it a step further, delivering the ultimate low loss for the most demanding multi-gigabit designs while adding the safety of halogen-free composition.

By understanding the properties and advantages of Rogers 4003c vs 4350b, you can make an informed decision on the best laminate for your specific application. Both materials continue to enable cutting-edge innovations in wireless infrastructure, aerospace and defense, automotive, and beyond.

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