The demand for high-frequency PCBs has been on the rise, driven by advancements in industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, and automotive. These specialized circuit boards are designed to handle frequencies well beyond the capabilities of standard PCBs, enabling the transmission of signals with minimal loss and interference. In this article, we present a comprehensive overview of the world’s top 15 high-frequency PCB manufacturers. From their cutting-edge technologies to their extensive capabilities, these companies play a pivotal role in shaping the future of high-frequency electronics.
1.JarnisTech
JarnisTech, headquartered in Shenzhen, China, is a leading provider of high-frequency PCB prototyping and volume production services, utilizing state-of-the-art fabrication technologies and rigorous testing methodologies. With their expertise, they specialize in manufacturing advanced PCBs with up to 60 layers, specifically designed for RF frequencies exceeding 10 GHz. These PCBs are utilized in a wide range of applications, including mmWave antennas, radar systems, satellite communication, electronic warfare, and aerospace/defense electronics.
JarnisTech’s core capabilities encompass a variety of aspects crucial to high-frequency PCB manufacturing. They offer a comprehensive selection of PCB materials, including Rogers, Taconic, and Arlon, specifically tailored to meet the demands of microwave and mmWave frequencies. Their expertise extends to creating stackups with optimal signal-power-ground layer sequencing, ensuring optimal signal integrity and performance.
The company excels in fine line PCB fabrication, achieving impressive line and space widths as low as 2 mil, enabling the precise implementation of intricate circuitry required for high-frequency applications. JarnisTech employs laser drilling techniques to create microvias for high-density interconnect (HDI), enhancing the overall functionality and miniaturization of the PCBs.
To maximize the high-frequency performance of their PCBs, JarnisTech utilizes immersion silver plating, a technique known for its excellent electrical conductivity and signal transmission properties. This ensures optimal signal integrity and reliability in demanding high-frequency applications.
Beyond traditional rigid PCBs, JarnisTech also specializes in the production of rigid-flex PCBs, which offer enhanced flexibility and versatility for applications requiring complex form factors or space-constrained environments.
Quality is of utmost importance to JarnisTech. They employ a comprehensive 100% testing approach for both electrical functionality and overall quality assurance. This rigorous testing process ensures that each PCB meets the highest standards of performance and reliability, meeting the stringent requirements of high-frequency applications.
With their cutting-edge fabrication technologies, expertise in high-frequency PCB design and manufacturing, and unwavering commitment to quality, JarnisTech has established itself as a trusted partner for companies seeking reliable and high-performance PCB solutions for their advanced applications.
2.TTM Technologies Inc
TTM Technologies Inc. is a leading high-frequency PCB manufacturer, offering advanced PCB solutions to various industries including telecommunications, aerospace, defense, and automotive. The company specializes in the production of high-frequency and radio frequency (RF) PCBs, which are essential for applications that require fast signal transmission and high data transfer rates. TTM Technologies Inc. has a strong global presence and is known for its high-quality products, reliable performance, and excellent customer service.
3.Nippon Mektron Ltd
Nippon Mektron Ltd. is another top high-frequency PCB manufacturer based in Japan. The company has been a key player in the PCB industry since its establishment in 1949. Nippon Mektron specializes in the production of advanced PCBs for a wide range of applications, including automotive, telecommunications, consumer electronics, and industrial equipment. They have expertise in high-frequency, high-speed, and high-density PCBs, and are known for their technological innovation and quality control processes. Nippon Mektron has several manufacturing facilities across the globe, ensuring a global supply chain and efficient delivery of their products.
4.Unimicron Technology Corp
Unimicron Technology Corp. is a leading global provider of high-quality printed circuit boards (PCBs) and related services. Founded in 1990, Unimicron has grown to become one of the largest PCB manufacturers in Taiwan and has a strong presence in the global market. The company offers a wide range of PCB products, including high-frequency, high-speed, and high-density PCBs, catering to various industries such as telecommunications, automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial applications.
Unimicron is renowned for its advanced manufacturing capabilities, technological expertise, and commitment to quality and reliability. The company has a strong focus on research and development, continually striving to develop innovative PCB solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers. With a global network of manufacturing facilities and sales offices, Unimicron ensures efficient production and delivery of its products to customers worldwide.
5.Park Electrochemical Corp
Park Electrochemical Corp. is a global advanced materials company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of high-performance composite materials, electronic materials, and advanced PCB materials. The company is headquartered in Melville, New York, USA.
Park Electrochemical Corp. offers a range of products and solutions for various industries, including aerospace, defense, automotive, telecommunications, and electronics. Their advanced PCB materials are designed to meet the demanding requirements of high-frequency and high-speed applications.
Under their Nelco® brand, Park Electrochemical Corp. produces high-frequency and high-speed digital materials, including laminates, prepregs, and bonding materials. These materials are used in the fabrication of multilayer PCBs for applications such as RF/microwave circuits, high-speed digital circuits, and high-frequency signal transmission.
Nelco® materials are known for their excellent electrical properties, low dielectric loss, high thermal reliability, and good dimensional stability. They are widely used in the telecommunications industry, aerospace and defense applications, automotive electronics, and other high-performance electronic systems.
Park Electrochemical Corp. has a strong reputation for quality and innovation in the advanced materials industry. They continue to develop new materials and technologies to meet the evolving needs of the electronics industry, especially in high-frequency and high-speed applications.
6.Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co. Ltd
Samsung Electro-Mechanics offers a diverse portfolio of products, including passive components, such as MLCCs (Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors), tantalum capacitors, inductors, and filters. They also provide modules and subsystems, such as camera modules, RF modules, and power modules.
In the context of PCBs, Samsung Electro-Mechanics is involved in the production of high-quality PCBs for various applications. Their PCBs are designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern electronic devices, including those with high-frequency and high-speed characteristics.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics has invested heavily in research and development to enhance their PCB manufacturing capabilities. They strive to provide PCB solutions that offer high performance, reliability, and miniaturization to meet the evolving needs of the electronics industry.
As a subsidiary of Samsung Group, Samsung Electro-Mechanics benefits from the group’s extensive resources, technological expertise, and global presence. This allows them to deliver cutting-edge electronic components and PCB solutions to customers worldwide.
7.Tripod Technology Corp
Tripod Technology Corp., also known as Tripod PCB, is a leading manufacturer of printed circuit boards (PCBs) based in Taiwan. The company specializes in the production of high-quality PCBs for a wide range of industries, including telecommunications, automotive, consumer electronics, industrial equipment, and more.
Tripod PCB offers a comprehensive range of PCB solutions, including single-sided, double-sided, and multilayer PCBs. They are known for their expertise in manufacturing high-density interconnect (HDI) PCBs, which are designed to accommodate complex circuitry in a smaller footprint.
The company utilizes advanced manufacturing processes and technologies to ensure the highest level of quality and reliability in their PCBs. They have implemented stringent quality control measures and adhere to international standards to meet the demanding requirements of their customers.
Tripod PCB focuses on continuous innovation and invests in research and development to stay at the forefront of PCB technology. They work closely with their customers to provide customized solutions that meet their specific needs and requirements.
With their commitment to quality, technological expertise, and customer-centric approach, Tripod Technology Corp. has established a strong reputation as a trusted PCB manufacturer in the industry. They serve customers globally and have built long-term partnerships with leading companies in various sectors.
8.Compeq Manufacturing Co. Ltd
Compeq Manufacturing Co., Ltd. is a prominent manufacturer of printed circuit boards (PCBs) based in Taiwan. The company specializes in the production of high-quality PCBs for a wide range of industries, including telecommunications, automotive, consumer electronics, medical devices, and more.
Compeq offers a comprehensive range of PCB solutions, including single-sided, double-sided, and multilayer PCBs. They are known for their expertise in manufacturing advanced PCB technologies, such as high-density interconnect (HDI) PCBs, flexible PCBs, and rigid-flex PCBs.
The company has a strong focus on research and development, continuously investing in new technologies and manufacturing processes to meet the evolving needs of the electronics industry. They work closely with their customers to provide customized solutions and support them throughout the entire product development cycle.
Compeq places a high emphasis on quality and reliability. They have implemented rigorous quality control measures and obtained various certifications, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, IATF 16949, and UL certification. This ensures that their PCBs meet the highest industry standards and comply with the strictest quality requirements.
With their advanced manufacturing capabilities, commitment to innovation, and dedication to customer satisfaction, Compeq Manufacturing Co., Ltd. has earned a strong reputation as a trusted PCB manufacturer. They serve customers worldwide and have established long-term partnerships with leading companies in the electronics industry.
9.Young Poong Electronics Co. Ltd
Young Poong Electronics Co., Ltd. is a well-known manufacturer of printed circuit boards (PCBs) based in South Korea. The company has been in operation since 1973 and has established itself as a reliable supplier of high-quality PCBs for various industries.
Young Poong Electronics offers a wide range of PCB solutions, including single-sided, double-sided, and multilayer PCBs. They specialize in producing high-density interconnect (HDI) PCBs, which are known for their compact size and ability to accommodate complex circuitry.
The company has a strong commitment to quality and reliability. They have implemented advanced manufacturing processes and quality control systems to ensure that their PCBs meet the highest industry standards. Young Poong Electronics is ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified, demonstrating their dedication to quality management and environmental responsibility.
In addition to their PCB manufacturing capabilities, Young Poong Electronics provides value-added services such as PCB assembly and testing. This allows them to offer comprehensive solutions to their customers, from PCB production to final product assembly.
Young Poong Electronics serves a wide range of industries, including telecommunications, automotive, consumer electronics, industrial equipment, and more. They have a global customer base and have established long-term partnerships with leading companies in various sectors.
With their extensive experience, commitment to quality, and customer-oriented approach, Young Poong Electronics Co., Ltd. has earned a solid reputation as a trusted PCB manufacturer in the industry. They continue to innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of the electronics market to provide cutting-edge PCB solutions to their customers.
10.Daeduck Electronics Co. Ltd
Daeduck Electronics Co. Ltd is a South Korean company that specializes in the manufacturing of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and related electronic components. The company was founded in 1972 and has since grown to become one of the leading PCB manufacturers in the world.
Daeduck Electronics offers a wide range of PCB products, including single-sided, double-sided, and multi-layer boards, as well as high-density interconnect (HDI) boards. These PCBs are used in various industries such as telecommunications, automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial applications.
The company is known for its advanced manufacturing capabilities, technological expertise, and commitment to quality and reliability. Daeduck Electronics has a strong focus on research and development, continually investing in new technologies and innovative solutions to meet the changing demands of its customers.
With manufacturing facilities in South Korea, China, Vietnam, and Mexico, Daeduck Electronics ensures efficient production and global delivery of its products. The company also has a strong customer support system, providing technical assistance and customization services to meet specific customer requirements.
11.Probe Test Solutions
Probe Test Solutions is a leading provider of cutting-edge probe card technologies and high-frequency PCB solutions tailored specifically for 5G communications, satellite RF testing, and aerospace/defense test applications.
Their core capabilities lie in the development and manufacturing of high-frequency materials, including PTFE composites, to ensure optimal performance in demanding environments.
Additionally, They specialize in millimeter wave antenna in package solutions, facilitating efficient and reliable communication in advanced wireless networks.
At the same time, they offer customized probe cards designed specifically for IC testing.
12.AT&S
AT&S, headquartered in Leoben, Austria, is the largest high-frequency PCB manufacturer in Europe, catering to the automotive, industrial, medical, and aerospace sectors. With their extensive capabilities, they specialize in the production of advanced PCBs, including HDI, multilayer, and rigid-flex boards, capable of operating at frequencies exceeding 100 GHz.
AT&S offers a diverse range of materials for their PCB manufacturing, including PTFE, ceramic, and polyimide-based substrates. These materials are carefully selected to meet the specific requirements of high-frequency applications, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
The company excels in the production of HDI structures, incorporating 3 um vias/lines. This allows for the precise implementation of complex circuitry, enabling high-density interconnects and miniaturization of the PCBs. AT&S also provides specialized stackup designs tailored for mmWave applications, ensuring optimal signal integrity and performance in demanding high-frequency environments.
AT&S utilizes advanced laser drilling techniques and backplane technology to achieve the highest levels of precision and functionality in their PCBs. Laser drilling enables the creation of microvias, facilitating the integration of intricate circuitry and enhancing the overall performance of the PCBs.
To ensure the quality and reliability of their PCBs, AT&S employs various testing methodologies. These include automated optical inspection (AOI), microsectioning, and electrical testing. These rigorous testing processes guarantee the integrity of the PCBs and verify their compliance with the highest industry standards.
AT&S offers a seamless transition from prototyping to mass production, enabling their customers to efficiently bring their high-frequency PCB designs to market. They have a global manufacturing footprint, allowing them to serve customers worldwide with consistent quality and timely delivery.
With their position as Europe’s largest high-frequency PCB manufacturer, AT&S has established a strong reputation for delivering cutting-edge solutions to the automotive, industrial, medical, and aerospace sectors. Their expertise, commitment to quality, and global manufacturing capabilities make them a trusted partner for companies seeking reliable and high-performance PCB solutions for their advanced applications.
13.Elec & Eltek
Elec & Eltek, headquartered in Taiwan, specializes in the production of high-frequency PCBs tailored for communication infrastructure applications, including 5G antennas, base stations, small cells, and satellite communications. They offer a wide range of advanced PCB solutions, including HDI and RF boards, designed to meet the demanding requirements of these applications.
Elec & Eltek’s core capabilities encompass the utilization of key laminates such as Rogers RO4003C, RO4835, and Taconic RF-60. These laminates are carefully selected for their superior performance characteristics in high-frequency applications, ensuring optimal signal integrity and reliability.
The company’s PCBs are designed to support frequencies up to 76 GHz, making them suitable for a wide range of high-speed communication applications. Elec & Eltek employs advanced technological techniques, including fractional microvia in pad technology, enabling the precise implementation of intricate circuitry and maximizing signal transmission efficiency.
Elec & Eltek offers a variety of copper options, ranging from 1oz to 2oz, on high TG (glass transition temperature) substrates. This allows for enhanced thermal management and improved signal integrity, ensuring the reliable operation of the PCBs in demanding high-frequency environments.
To meet the requirements of fine pitch components, Elec & Eltek utilizes the ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold) surface finish. This surface finish provides excellent solderability, corrosion resistance, and flatness, ensuring reliable connections and optimal performance of the components.
Elec & Eltek places great emphasis on RF characterization and testing. They employ rigorous testing methodologies to verify the performance and reliability of their high-frequency PCBs, ensuring they meet the stringent requirements of communication infrastructure applications.
From prototyping to volume production, Elec & Eltek offers a seamless manufacturing process, allowing their customers to efficiently bring their high-frequency PCB designs to market. They have the expertise and capacity to support projects of varying scales, ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery.
With their specialization in high-frequency PCBs for communication infrastructure applications, Elec & Eltek has established themselves as a trusted provider in the industry. Their commitment to advanced technologies, rigorous testing, and dedication to meeting customer needs make them an ideal partner for companies seeking reliable and high-performance PCB solutions for their communication infrastructure projects.
14.San Francisco Circuits
San Francisco Circuits, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, California, is a leading manufacturer of advanced RF, microwave, and millimeter wave PCBs catering to communications infrastructure and aerospace/defense applications. Their expertise lies in the production of high-frequency PCBs capable of operating at frequencies up to 90 GHz.
San Francisco Circuits utilizes a variety of high-performance materials, including PTFE, quartz, and hydrocarbon ceramic substrates. These materials are carefully chosen for their exceptional electrical properties, enabling the reliable transmission of high-frequency signals with minimal loss and interference.
The company specializes in the design and fabrication of multilayer PCBs, integrating RF, digital, and mixed-signal circuitry. This allows for the seamless integration of various components and functionalities, optimizing the performance and functionality of the PCBs in complex applications.
San Francisco Circuits employs advanced modeling and signal integrity analysis techniques to ensure the optimal performance of their high-frequency PCBs. These techniques enable them to identify and mitigate potential signal integrity issues, such as impedance mismatches and crosstalk, resulting in improved signal quality and overall system performance.
To ensure reliable connections and protect exposed pads, San Francisco Circuits employs the ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold) surface finish. This surface finish provides excellent solderability, corrosion resistance, and durability, enhancing the longevity and performance of the PCBs.
Via stubs can introduce unwanted signal reflections and impedance variations in high-frequency PCBs. San Francisco Circuits employs via stub elimination techniques to minimize these effects, ensuring consistent signal transmission and impedance characteristics throughout the PCB.
San Francisco Circuits places great emphasis on quality and reliability. They perform 100% electrical testing on their high-frequency PCBs, verifying their functionality and adherence to specifications. This rigorous testing process ensures that only reliable and high-quality PCBs are delivered to their customers.
With their focus on low to mid volume production, San Francisco Circuits offers flexible manufacturing solutions for various project sizes. Their expertise, combined with their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, makes them a trusted partner for companies seeking advanced high-frequency PCBs for communications infrastructure and aerospace/defense applications.
15.Cicor Group
Cicor Group, headquartered in Boudry, Switzerland, is a renowned provider of sophisticated PCBs and microelectronics solutions. They cater to a diverse range of industries, including aerospace, defense, medical, and industrial automation. Cicor Group specializes in delivering high-quality PCB technologies that are well-suited for high-frequency applications.
Cicor Group offers a wide range of capabilities to meet the specific needs of their customers. Their expertise includes RF designs implemented on substrates such as Rogers RO4003, known for their excellent electrical properties and suitability for high-frequency applications. This enables Cicor Group to provide reliable and high-performance PCB solutions for industries where signal integrity and frequency response are critical.
In addition to RF designs, Cicor Group excels in the production of multilayer and HDI (High-Density Interconnect) circuit boards. These advanced PCB technologies allow for the integration of complex circuitry and enable high-density packaging, contributing to enhanced functionality and miniaturization of electronic devices.
Cicor Group also offers flex and rigid-flex PCB solutions, providing flexibility in design and enabling the creation of compact and flexible electronic systems. Their expertise in this area allows them to meet the demands of industries where space constraints and flexibility are key considerations.
The company is well-versed in advanced assembly techniques on ceramic substrates, enabling the integration of microelectronics and high-frequency components. This capability is particularly valuable in industries such as aerospace and defense, medical, and industrial automation, where reliability and performance in harsh environments are essential.
Cicor Group maintains clean room facilities for assembly and testing, ensuring the highest level of cleanliness and quality control during the manufacturing process. This enables them to meet the stringent requirements of industries where contamination can have a significant impact on product performance and reliability.
From prototyping to medium volume production, Cicor Group offers comprehensive manufacturing services, allowing their customers to seamlessly transition from initial designs to full-scale production. Their ability to support projects of varying scales ensures efficient and reliable delivery of high-quality PCBs and microelectronics solutions.
With their commitment to excellence and extensive capabilities, Cicor Group has established itself as a trusted partner for industries seeking sophisticated PCBs and microelectronics solutions. Their focus on high-frequency applications, combined with their expertise in various industry sectors, positions them as a reliable provider of advanced electronic solutions to meet the evolving needs of aerospace, defense, medical, and industrial automation industries.
Selecting a High-Frequency PCB Manufacturer: Key Considerations
When selecting a PCB manufacturer for high-frequency applications, it is important to consider the following factors:
1.Frequency Range:
Ensure that the manufacturer has experience and capabilities in supporting the desired frequency range, especially for applications involving mmWave boards exceeding 10 GHz.
2.Materials Expertise:
Look for manufacturers who demonstrate knowledge and experience in working with high-frequency materials such as Rogers and Taconic substrates. This expertise is crucial for optimizing signal performance and minimizing losses.
3.HDI Capabilities:
Check if the manufacturer offers High-Density Interconnect (HDI) technology with microvias and fine features. This technology enables efficient routing and reduces signal interference, making it essential for high-frequency applications.
4.Stackup Experience:
Choose a manufacturer with expertise in designing optimal layer stacks that effectively separate digital and RF signals, minimizing cross-talk and maximizing performance.
5.Design Services:
Ensure that the manufacturer provides comprehensive design support, from schematic to fabrication, to help optimize the layout and ensure signal integrity in high-frequency applications.
6.Modeling and Analysis:
Look for manufacturers who offer simulation capabilities to accurately model and analyze signal integrity, power integrity, impedance, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) issues. This helps identify and address potential problems early in the design process.
7.Quality Systems:
Consider manufacturers with certifications like IPC, ISO, and AS9100, as they demonstrate a commitment to disciplined quality processes and reliable manufacturing practices.
8.Testing Capabilities:
Check if the manufacturer offers a range of electrical, RF, and functional tests to ensure the quality and performance of the high-frequency PCBs.
9.Prototyping Abilities:
Evaluate the manufacturer’s capabilities in both low-volume prototyping and volume production. This ensures that they can support your needs throughout the product development cycle.
10.Applications Experience:
Look for manufacturers with specific expertise in the application area of your product, such as radars or 5G. This ensures that they understand the unique requirements and challenges of your industry.
11.Cost Effectiveness:
Consider the manufacturer’s pricing competitiveness while ensuring that it aligns with their strong technical capabilities. Balancing cost with quality is crucial to achieve a successful high-frequency PCB manufacturing partnership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How Testing for High Frequency PCBs?
A:Electrical Testing for High Frequency PCBs: Insertion Loss, VSWR, Time Domain Reflectometry, Impedance, and RF Functionality
Q:What are Challenges in Manufacturing High Frequency PCBs?
A:Signal Integrity, Impedance Control, Thermal Management, PCB Distortion, and Reliability.
Q:What are Fabrication Processes for High Frequency PCBs?
A:Laser Drilling, Photolithography, Sequential Lamination, Controlled Impedance Traces, SI Analysis, and Modeling.
Q: What Are Supported Frequency Range of High Frequency PCBs?
A:Operating Range of High Frequency PCBs: From Microwave Bands (3-30 GHz) to mmWave Frequencies (>30 GHz).
Q: What are Key Materials Utilized in High Frequency PCBs Fabrication?
A:Prominent Materials for High Frequency PCBs: PTFE Composites (e.g., Rogers 4000, Taconic RF Materials, Arlon), Isola Astra, and Ceramics (e.g., Aluminum Nitride).
Conclusion
As the demand for high-frequency PCBs continues to grow, the world’s top 15 manufacturers play a crucial role in meeting the industry’s needs. Through their advanced technologies, extensive capabilities, and commitment to quality, these companies are driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in high-frequency electronics. Whether it’s for communication infrastructure, aerospace applications, or medical devices, these manufacturers are trusted partners for industries seeking reliable and high-performance high-frequency PCB solutions. As technology continues to evolve, these companies will undoubtedly remain at the forefront, shaping the future of high-frequency electronics and enabling the next generation of advanced applications.
