When planning a trip for the first time there is usually a significant amount of planning and preparation involved. First, the destination is chosen that meets the objective (e.g. Las Vegas for a conference). Next, guidebooks and maps are consulted to chart the route, minimize travel time and cost, and avoid pitfalls along the way such as running out of gas, overheating the engine or not having money for the tolls. The same planning process is generally used in many companies to introduce new technologies. Embedded passives are one of those new technologies in which many companies have an interest in implementing. There is a tremendous amount of hype and excitement in available literature related to the use of embedded passives. Most available information highlights the positive aspects of the technology, with a few negatives sprinkled in occasionally. What is missing happens to be the travel guide that helps a development program avoid the roadblocks, detours, and hazards associated with embedded passives. This paper can be one of those guidebooks. It will highlight the difficulties encountered while implementing embedded passives. It will bring to light some of the design and tool issues, as well as the issues of matching material with board fabricator that appeared along the journey. Those items that were successful will also be shared. So make sure your seat belt is fastened, your tray table is in its upright and locked position, and learn from our journey of implementing embedded passives.
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