Embedded/Internal Antenna Production Methods
Laird Technologies' embedded antenna concepts provide a series of products to satisfy all customer requirements for all existing standards. Laird Technologies develops embedded antennas for mounting on a frame, in a lid or directly on a PCB. The most frequently used radiator techniques are metal sheet, metal foil and Laird Technologies' proven flexfilm technique.
Etched Flex Film
Flexfilm is ideal for multi band antennas. The etching process allows most patterns to be made. Flexfilm also enables RF changes in a late stage. Flexfilm can be bent 2,5D. A punching tool is required for the carrier material.
**Need extra connector -- in most cases a spring loaded connector is used
- Suits different antenna concepts
- Short lead-times in development and production
- Flexible radiator shaping (2,5D)
- Traces or slots < 1mm (Flexfilm)
- Contacting (clip)
- Flexible placement
- Well proven
- Volume efficient
- Features
- Multi band friendly GPS, Bluetooth, W-LAN etc.
- Patent pending solution
Punched Metal Foil
The punched metal foil can be made slightly thinner than Flexfilm. There are considerable limitations in pattern geometry, since excess material must be removed. A carrier tape is often needed for shipping and assembly. RF alteration cause changes in tool. Foil can be bent in 2,5D.
**Need extra connectors -- in most cases a spring loaded connector is used
- Suits different antenna concepts
- Short lead-times in development and production
- Flexible radiator shaping (2,5D)
- Traces or slots < 1mm (Flexfilm)
- Contacting (clip)
- Flexible placement
- Well proven
- Volume efficient
- Features
- Multi band friendly GPS, Bluetooth, W-LAN etc.
- Patent pending solution
Stamped Metal Sheet
Stamped metal sheet is a low cost solution. Due to the stamping process there are limitations in the pattern geometry. Furthermore, if there are multiple separate patterns a carrier is needed. Tools are costly and may take a long time to change when RF pattern is altered.
**Connectors can be made in the same metal piece. It is also possible to rivet connectors or use spring loaded connectors.
- Proven solution
- Long experience from production
- Several variants with integrated connections
- Low cost
- Dual or Triple Band
MID
2-shot MID enables the antenna radiator to be free formed and designed to fit the phone. The radiator pattern is limited by the flowability of the plastic material, thin long lines can be problematic. Tools are complex, costly and might take a long time to change.
**Need extra connectors -- in most cases a spring loaded connector is used
- Space efficient
- Complex geometry (3D)
- Suited for high volumes
- Good repeatability
- Reduced part count
- Multi band friendly
