What constitutes an RF PCB?
RF refers to radio frequency, a type of high-frequency alternating current electromagnetic waves used in electronics, specifically for modulated radio waves generated by radio frequency circuits at a specific frequency. RF PCB is a specialized type of printed circuit board used for high-frequency electronic devices, requiring careful attention to factors such as signal transmission, impedance control, signal integrity, and electromagnetic compatibility when considering PCB materials, wiring, ground planes, antennas, filters, and PCB layout. Characteristics defining the properties of RF PCB laminates include dielectric constant (Dk), loss factor (Df), coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), dielectric constant thermal coefficient (TCDk), and thermal conductivity. Basic characteristics of RF PCBs include dividing wireless transmitters and receivers into fundamental frequency and radio frequency parts, with the fundamental frequency used to enhance data stream reliability and reduce the load on the transmission medium, and the RF circuit used to convert, shift, and inject signals in the transmission medium. When selecting RF PCB materials, it is essential to comprehensively consider the dielectric constant, loss factor, coefficient of thermal expansion, dielectric constant thermal coefficient, and thermal conductivity.