2.6.4
High-performance, small-size packaging enabled by NXP's leadless package platform
and WL-CSP technology
RF small-signal packaging is driven by two major trends which partly overlap
`
Lower parasitics for better RF performance
`
Smaller form factors for portable applications
To cope with these trends, NXP uses several approaches
`
For non-space-restricted applications the use of flat-pack packages instead of gull-wing versions reduces the parasitic
impedance because of shorter lead length (e.g. SOT343F instead of SOT343). This results in better RF performance in
the Ku and Ka bands (13-20GHz). To reduce PCB board space, a smaller version (SOT1206) is also available.
SOT1206
`
For space-restricted applications there are two routes to reduce the form factor and parasitics:
- Leadless package platform
- Wafer Level Chip Scale Package (WL-CSP) technology
The leadless package (UTLP) platform
(>25 variants already
released) is highly flexible with respect to package size,
package height, and I/O pitch. For example, the 6-pin
packages range in size from 1.45 x 1 x 0.5 mm with 0.5 mm
pitch to 0.8 x 0.8 x 0.35 mm with 0.3 mm pitch. Package height
of 0.25 mm is planned.
Because of the compact size of the design, wire lengths and
parasitic impedance are also restricted. The absence of leads
further reduces the inductance.
Wafer Level Chip Scale Package technology
is ideally for
RF functions where the I/O pitch has to fit within the chip
area. With larger pitches and smaller designs (and thus little
effective chip area), it is more cost-effective to do the fan-out
using a leadless package instead of increasing the chip size.
The absence of wires gives the lowest parasitic inductance
available.
SOT1208
0.65 x 0.44 x 0.29 mm (incl. 0.09 mm balls)
5 I/Os @ 0.22 mm pitch
74
NXP Semiconductors RF Manual 16
th
edition