Molex announces 2.4GHz SMD Ground molded interconnect device antenna

     Molex now offers the smallest Molded Interconnect Device (MID) antenna on the market, a 2.4GHz SMD on-ground antenna. This high-performance 2.4GHz SMD antenna was developed using the power and precision of Laser Direct Structuring (LDS) technology, which significantly saves PCB space and does not require PCB distance from the ground. This lightweight antenna weighs only 0.03g and is used for portable electronics using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee and other wireless standards, including tablets, headphones, smart meters and more.

     With a space size of only 3.00 x 3.00 x 4.00mm (0.118 x 0.118 x 0.157 inches), this antenna can be used to retain the complete ground layer on the PCB, allowing board manufacturers to save significant PCB space. Because the antenna is mounted on only one side of the PCB board, it helps to free up space on the back of the PCB board to install additional components.

     Most 2.4GHz ceramic antennas available on the market today require the PCB to provide the appropriate distance from the ground in order to achieve the desired radiation characteristics; Molex's 2.4GHz ground antenna requires no PCB ground distance and is suitable for use on PCBS of all sizes. The LCP body of the antenna provides good thermal performance and achieves a higher mechanical strain tolerance than ceramic antennas. The accuracy and precision of the LDS process ensures consistent RF performance during manufacturing.

     "Oems and other device manufacturers are under pressure to make 2.4GHz wireless implementations as compact as possible," said Ellen McMillan, vice president and general manager of the Antenna Business unit at Molex's Commercial Products Division. Molex now offers the smallest SMD antenna in its class, optimising the use of PCB space. Not only does the antenna reduce BOM costs, its surface mount design enables our customers to achieve very efficient installation and faster time to market."

     The 2.4GHz SMD ground antenna is a unipolar antenna with an omnidirectional radiation pattern that matches the PCB itself using a simple strip line (a conductive trace sandwiched between two reference surfaces and the PCB insulation) without the need for discrete components. Because the elements near the antenna create load effects, a single discrete series element can be used if needed to compensate the resonant frequency of the antenna.

     The antenna is fully compatible with SMD and reflow soldering processes and can be used as a standalone device without cable connections. This antenna makes component integration and installation easier and reduces costs. It is RoHS compliant and halogen-free, and comes in standard reel packaging.