Gigabit data transmission with a novel flexible printed circuit structure

摘要

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to present the problem of high-speed data transmission on flexible printed circuits (FPC) and the commonrnmethod for transmission signal designs on those FPCs. A new and novel approach using a "voided return path" of the coplanar transmission model isrndescribed and the ease of building them in mass production is described.rnDesign/methodology/approach - Microstrip transmission structures with a "mesh" return were studied and illustrated with emphasis on thernproblems encountered when the signal changes direction. A new solution using the "voided" return layer of the coplanar transmission model wasrnproposed, simulated, built and tested.rnFindings - The use of this novel coplanar structure to solve the problem of gigabit data transmission, with minimum noise and electromagneticrninterference on flexible circuits can be achieved at low cost and with the flexibility to have multiple impedances and application for "Dynamic Flex".rnResearch limitations/implications - The "voided" coplanar structure has been used successfully. Further, developments are underway to employrna "modified" broadsided-coupled differential structure that simulated a "twisted pair".rnOriginality/value - The paper describes various high-speed transmission structures on FPC used in computers and servers, combined with highrnvolume mass-production techniques. It presents the best cost scenario for optimal PCB design flexibility and applications.