Helen Frankenthaler PCB Circuit Board R&D Center

Low Loss Thin PCB for Communication Equipment

Introduction of Commonly Used Low Loss PCB Materials

Introduction of Commonly Used Low Loss PCB Materials

Low-loss PCBs are often used in high-frequency applications because of their ability to minimize signal attenuation and power losses. These PCBs are manufactured using specialized materials and precise manufacturing techniques to achieve superior performance. The low dielectric constant and low dissipation coefficient of low-loss PCBS ensure the integrity and efficiency of signal transmission. Here we will learn what low-loss PCBS are and related low-loss PCB materials.

What is Low Loss PCB Material?

Low loss PCB materials are materials with low permittivity and low dissipation coefficient, which minimise signal attenuation and power losses.

Low loss PCB is a specialised circuit board designed to reduce electrical losses when signals are sent through it. Low loss printed circuit boards are ideal for applications requiring high-frequency signal transmission because of the low loss PCB material they use, as they can minimise the energy lost during the transfer process.

Low loss PCBs are usually constructed from specific low loss PCB materials such as modified epoxy, enhanced epoxy, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), Teflon, ceramic-filled epoxy, or mica-filled epoxy resin, which provide excellent electrical insulation properties. As a result, they are widely used in various electronic applications, such as radio communications and satellite systems. Their advantages include low insertion loss and improved signal fidelity, making them an ideal choice for these applications.

The Benefits of Using Low Loss PCB Material in Low Loss PCB Fabrication
  • Low signal loss in transmission
  • Low signal distortion
  • Increase the antenna sensitivity
  • Low noise levels
  • Reduced weight and size of the circuit board
  • Improved overall performance
  • Increased reliability
Applications of Low Loss PCB Materials
  • Low loss PCBs are used in a variety of applications, including telecommunications, automotive, active safety systems, healthcare, energy systems, and battery management systems.
  • In telecommunications applications, low loss printed circuit boards are used in RF transmission lines to reduce losses caused by the propagation of electromagnetic waves. Low loss PCB materials can provide superior performance for high-frequency signals, improving signal-to-noise ratios and reducing crosstalk between adjacent transmission lines.
  • Low loss PCB materials also minimise interference between multiple transmission lines, essential for ensuring high data rates and reliable communications. Low loss PCBs can also reduce power consumption for RF applications, giving them the potential cost savings benefit.
  • Low loss PCB are used in various automotive electronics applications, including powertrains and active safety systems. Low loss PCBs that use low loss PCB materials are essential components of powertrain systems, such as engine control units and electric vehicle powertrains. Low loss PCB materials also help reduce power consumption, improving fuel efficiency and reducing the vehicle’s emissions.
  • Low loss printed circuits are also used in active safety systems, such as lane-departure warning systems, blind spot monitoring systems, and adaptive cruise control systems. Low loss PCB materials provide superior signal propagation for these systems, allowing them to detect potential hazards more quickly and accurately.
  • Low loss printed circuit boards are also essential for healthcare devices, such as medical imaging and patient monitoring. Low loss PCB materials provide improved signal clarity for these devices, which allows for more accurate diagnoses. Low loss PCB materials can also reduce the power consumption of healthcare devices, providing potential cost savings benefits.
  • Low loss printed circuit boards can also be found in energy systems, such as wind and solar turbines. Low loss PCB materials provide superior performance for these systems, allowing them to generate more electricity with less power consumption.
  • Low loss printed circuit boards are also essential for battery management systems, providing improved monitoring and control capabilities.
Introduction of Low Loss PCB material manufacturer and types
Manufacture/GradeMiddle LossLow LossVery Low LossUltra Low Loss
IsolaFR408HRI-SPEED®IS680 AGIS680
TERRAGREEN®I-TERA® MT40TACHYON® 100G
ASTRA® MT77
AGCN4000-13N4000-13 EP
N7000-2 HT
N7000-3N4000-12 SIN4000-13 EP SI
N4800-20
N8000Meteorwave 1