Glass Devices for Next-Generation Packaging and RF Signal Conditioning

Abstract

The push for higher communications frequencies, greater system integration, and smaller space imparts many unique challenges on RF and packaging engineers in the development of next generation cellular products for 5G, WiFi 6, Military, and other applications. Traditional materials, such as LTCC, organic laminates, and silicon face major limitations to dramatically improve system size, weight, and performance (SWAP). Photosensitive Glass-Ceramics (PSG) have gained a lot of attention as a next generation RF and RF packaging substrate for their ability to simultaneously solve these two important challenges. In this paper the authors will present on our work using PSG for RF and RF packaging solutions. We will share (1) the advantages of using PSG for advanced RF packages, and (2) our work demonstrating glass as an RF substrate integrating discrete components and embedded die for passive RF filters, and (3) our work towards building vertically stacked glass packages for advanced RF systems-in-package (SiP). The described work presents a manufacturing platform for the production of vertically stacked glass substrates with integrated high Quality Factor passive devices, such as inductors and capacitors, and heterogeneously integrated surface mount devices for advanced RF systems-in-package. The presented material demonstrates a production and assembly process for the manufacturing of advanced systems. In this paper, we present design, production, assembly considerations that impact size, weight, and performance (SWAP) metrics for a variety of product definitions and multiple simulation vs. product testing to demonstrate a reliable design to product flow.