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1 – 10 of 57
Article
Publication date: 10 April 2009

M. Norén, S. Brunner, C. Hoffmann, W. Salz and K. Aichholzer

One of the major driving forces for the electronic industry is the consumer handheld units, where even more functions in a smaller volume and with longer battery time are…

Abstract

Purpose

One of the major driving forces for the electronic industry is the consumer handheld units, where even more functions in a smaller volume and with longer battery time are requested. This leads to a higher energy‐ and interconnect‐density. Two challenges related to this request, that the industry is facing, are thermal management and reliability. This paper aim to discuss some aspects of using flip chip (FC) technology on low temperature cofired ceramics (LTCC) for this kind of products and to focus on the heat dissipation problem of an FC mounted die.

Design/methodology/approach

Test designs were developed and built to investigate SnAgCu bumps on LTCC, underfill and five different LTCC designs. The LTCC design parameters were thermal vias and heat spreaders. In the experimental part, the semiconductor junction temperature was measured over a diode in the semiconductor. Cross sections and infrared thermal imaging were used. The experiments were accompanied by FE‐modeling using ANSYS workbench.

Findings

The main reduction in temperature is related to the use of thermal vias and a via offset smaller than 60 μm. A 100 μm via diameter gives only a minor increase in the semiconductor junction temperature. Reducing the LTCC substrate thickness will decrease the junction temperature further.

Originality/value

This paper shows that FC on LTCC is a promising key technology for power amplifier modules.

Details

Soldering & Surface Mount Technology, vol. 21 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0954-0911

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 July 2013

Dominik Jurków

The paper aims to present numerical modeling and technology of a very first three axial low temperature cofired ceramics (LTCC) accelerometer.

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to present numerical modeling and technology of a very first three axial low temperature cofired ceramics (LTCC) accelerometer.

Design/methodology/approach

Low temperature cofired ceramics technology was applied in the fabrication process of the novel device. The numerical modeling was used to predict the properties of the accelerometer, moreover, design of the experiment methodology was used to reduce time of simulation and to get as much as information from the experiment as possible.

Findings

The low temperature cofired ceramics make it possible to fabricate three axial accelerometer.

Research limitations/implications

The presented device is just a first prototype. Therefore, further research work will be needed to improve structural drawbacks and to analyze precisely the device reliability and parameters repeatability.

Practical implications

The device presented in the paper can be applied in systems working in a harsh environment (high temperature and humidity). Ceramic sensors can withstand temperatures up to 600°C.

Originality/value

This paper presents novel three axial LTCC accelerometer.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 30 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 January 2013

Dominik Jurków and Grzegorz Lis

The purpose of this paper is to present the application of low temperature cofired ceramics (LTCC) technology in the fabrication of a novel electronic device, which consists of an…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the application of low temperature cofired ceramics (LTCC) technology in the fabrication of a novel electronic device, which consists of an antenna amplifier integrated with temperature stabilizer. The temperature controller consists of a thick‐film thermistor and heater, which has been optimized using geometry to achieve uniform temperature distribution on the whole electronic substrate.

Design/methodology/approach

LTCC technology was applied in the fabrication process of the novel device. The temperature distribution on the ceramic substrate and temperature stabilization time were analyzed using an IR camera. The heating ability of the heater was tested in a climatic chamber. The heater and thermistors parameters variability were estimated using a basic mathematical statistic.

Findings

The integrated device ensures proper temperature conditions of electronic components if the ambient temperature is lower than −40°C.

Research limitations/implications

The presented device is just a first prototype. Therefore, the fabrication of the next structures and further experiments will be needed to improve structural drawbacks and to analyze precisely the device reliability and parameters repeatability.

Practical implications

The device presented in the paper can be applied in systems working at very low ambient temperatures (even at −5°C). Moreover, a temperature stabilizer can increase the temperature of the whole device above −40°C, therefore, standard electronic components (which can work down to −40°C) can be used instead of specialized ones (which can work below −40°C).

Originality/value

This paper presents a novel temperature stabilizer.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 30 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 May 2020

Heike Bartsch, Sebastian Thiele, Jens Mueller, Dirk Schabbel, Beate Capraro, Timmy Reimann, Steffen Grund and Jörg Töpfer

This paper aims to investigate the usability of the nickel copper zinc ferrite with the composition Ni0.4Cu0.2Zn0.4Fe1.98O3.99 for the realization of high-temperature multilayer…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the usability of the nickel copper zinc ferrite with the composition Ni0.4Cu0.2Zn0.4Fe1.98O3.99 for the realization of high-temperature multilayer coils as discrete components and integrated, buried function units in low temperature cofired ceramics (LTCC).

Design/methodology/approach

LTCC tapes were cast and test components were produced as multilayer coils and as embedded coils in a dielectric tape. Different metallization pastes are compared. The properties of the components were measured at room temperature and higher temperature up to 250°C. The results are compared with simulation data.

Findings

The silver palladium paste revealed the highest inductance values within the study. The measured characteristics over a frequency range from 1 MHz to 100 MHz agree qualitatively with the measurements obtained from toroidal test samples. The inductance increases with increasing temperature and this influence is lower than 10%. The characteristic of embedded coils is comparable with this of multilayer components. The effective permeability of the ferrite material reaches values around 130.

Research limitations/implications

The research results based on a limited number of experiments; therefore, the results should be verified considering higher sample sizes.

Practical implications

The results encourage the further investigation of the material Ni0.4Cu0.2Zn0.4Fe1.98O3.99 for the use as high-temperature ferrite for the design of multilayer coils with an operation frequency in the range of 5-10 MHz and operation temperatures up to 250°C.

Originality/value

It is demonstrated for the first time, that the material Ni0.4Cu0.2Zn0.4Fe1.98O3.99 is suitable for the realization of high-temperature multilayer coils and embedded coils in LTCC circuit carriers with high performance.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 37 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 August 2017

Beata Synkiewicz, Dorota Szwagierczak and Jan Kulawik

The paper aims to report on fabrication procedure and present microstructure and dielectric behavior of multilayer porous low-temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) structures based…

169

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to report on fabrication procedure and present microstructure and dielectric behavior of multilayer porous low-temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) structures based on glass-cordierite and glass-alumina.

Design/methodology/approach

The LTCC structures were created as multi-layered composites with dense external layers and inner layers with intentionally introduced porosity. Two preparation methods were applied – subsequent casting of both kinds of slurries and conventional isostatic lamination of dried green tapes arranged in the designed order. Optical microscope observations were carried out to analyze the microstructure of green and fired multilayer structures and pore concentration. To evaluate the adhesion strength of the composite layers, pull test was performed. Dielectric behavior of the composites was studied in the frequency range 50 kHz-2 MHz.

Findings

The fabricated porous LTCC structures showed dielectric constant of 3-5.6. The lowest dielectric constant was attained for glass-cordierite composite made by the conventional tape casting/lamination/firing method from slurry with 50 per cent graphite content. The samples prepared using multiple casting were of worse quality than those fabricated in conventional process, contained irregular porosity, showed tendency for deformation and delamination and exhibited a higher dielectric constant.

Originality/value

Search for new low dielectric constant materials applicable in LTCC technology and new methods of their fabrication is an important task for development of modern microwave circuits.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 34 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 1994

B. Sjöling, S.P. Turvey and J.H. Alexander

Low temperature cofiring ceramic tape (LTCC) is increasingly used for the production of complex three‐dimensional multilayer interconnect structures in microelectronics packaging…

Abstract

Low temperature cofiring ceramic tape (LTCC) is increasingly used for the production of complex three‐dimensional multilayer interconnect structures in microelectronics packaging. LTCC technology offers many attractive features including mechanical strength, high temperature performance, hermeticity and, with advanced crystallisable ceramic compositions, such as the Ferro A6 tape, outstanding microwave performance. Key among properties that discriminate LTCC technology from competing packaging approaches are two features that allow both design flexibility and maximum integratability: the ability to integrate the full range of passive components — resistors, capacitors and inductors — within the monolithic LTCC structure: and the fact that the LTCC interconnect system provides not only the interchip connection but also the package itself for the components, that is, the LTCC does not have to be placed in a further level of packaging before use. In this paper, the flexibility of design achievable with this company's A6 tape system including integratable passive components is discussed. Design rules that should be observed with the system to ensure that maximum benefit can be obtained from the key performance characteristics of the LTCC materials are addressed. Data supporting these design considerations are presented, as is a review of production processing parameters and their effect on yield, performance and cost of modules produced using the system. Specific project examples are reviewed to demonstrate the applications of this technology in advanced packaging design.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 11 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Article
Publication date: 1 August 2016

Dorota Szwagierczak, Jan Kulawik, Beata Synkiewicz and Agata Skwarek

The work was aimed at preparation of green tapes based on a new material Bi2/3CuTa4O12, to achieve spontaneously formation of an internal barrier layer capacitor (IBLC)…

Abstract

Purpose

The work was aimed at preparation of green tapes based on a new material Bi2/3CuTa4O12, to achieve spontaneously formation of an internal barrier layer capacitor (IBLC), fabrication of multilayer elements using low temperature cofired ceramics (LTCC) technology and their characterization.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focused on tape casting, lamination and co-sintering procedures and dielectric properties of Bi2/3CuTa4O12 multilayer capacitors. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) studies of the ceramic elements were performed. Impedance spectroscopy was used for characterization of dielectric properties in the frequency range of 0.1 Hz to −2 MHz and in the temperature range from −55 to 400°C. DC conductivity was investigated in the temperature range 20 to 740°C.

Findings

SEM observations revealed a good compatibility of the applied commercial Pt paste with the ceramic layers. The EDS microanalysis showed a higher content of oxygen at grain boundaries. The dominant dielectric response, which was recorded in the low frequency range and at temperatures above 0°C, was attributed to grain boundaries. The dielectric response at low temperatures and/or high frequencies was related to grains. The fabricated multilayer capacitors based on Bi2/3CuTa4O12 exhibited a high specific capacitance.

Originality/value

A new material Bi2/3CuTa4O12 was applied for preparation of green ceramic tapes and utilized for fabrication of multilayer ceramic capacitors using the LTCC technology. This material belongs to the group of high permittivity nonferroelectric compounds with a complex perovskite structure of CaCu3Ti4O12, that causes the spontaneously formation of IBLCs.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 33 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 1997

M. Itagaki, Y. Bessho, K. Eda and T. Ishida

A zero X‐Y shrinkage low temperature cofired ceramic(LTCC) substrate was developed, which was applied to flip‐chip bondedchip‐size packages (CSPs) and multichip modules (MCMs).The…

156

Abstract

A zero X‐Y shrinkage low temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) substrate was developed, which was applied to flip‐chip bonded chip‐size packages (CSPs) and multichip modules (MCMs). The Ag internal conductor, the AgPd external conductor and the newly developed Ag via conductor could be used by matching the sintering shrinkage behaviour with that of the zero X‐Y shrinkage LTCC substrate. Flip‐chip bonding using the stud‐bump ‐bonding (SBB) technique could be performed on this substrate without Au plating on the external conductor. Stable flip‐chip bondability was obtained.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 14 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 February 2011

O. Nousiainen, T. Kangasvieri, R. Rautioaho and J. Vähäkangas

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the thermal fatigue endurance of two lead‐free solders used in composite solder joints consisting of plastic core solder balls (PCSB…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the thermal fatigue endurance of two lead‐free solders used in composite solder joints consisting of plastic core solder balls (PCSB) and different solder materials, in order to assess their feasibility in lowtemperature cofired ceramic (LTCC)/printed wiring board (PWB) assemblies.

Design/methodology/approach

The characteristic lifetime of these joints was determined in a thermal cycling test (TCT) over a temperature range of −40‐125°C. Their failure mechanisms were analyzed after the TCT using scanning acoustic and optical microscopy, scanning electronic microscope, and field emission scanning electronic microscope investigation.

Findings

The results showed that four different failure mechanisms existed in the test assemblies cracking in the mixed ceramic/metallization zone; or a mixed transgranular/intergranular failure occurred at the low temperature extreme; whereas an intergranular failure within the solder matrix; or separation of the intermetallic layer and the solder matrix occurred at the high temperature extreme. Sn3Ag0.5Cu0.5In0.05Ni was more resistant to mixed transgranular/intergranular failure, but had poor adhesion with the Ag3Sn layer. On the other hand, cracking in the mixed ceramic/metallization zone typically existed in the joints with Sn2.5Ag0.8Cu0.5Sb solder, whereas the joints with Sn3Ag0.5Cu0.5In0.05Ni were practically free of these cracks. The characteristic lifetimes of both test joint configurations were at the same level (800‐1,000) compared with joints consisted of Sn4Ag0.5Cu solder and PCSB studied earlier.

Originality/value

The study investigated in detail the failure mechanisms of the Sn3Ag0.5Cu0.5In0.05Ni and Sn2.5Ag0.8Cu0.5Sb solders under harsh accelerated test conditions. It was proved that these solders behaved similarly to the ternary SnAgCu solders in these conditions and no improvement can be achieved by utilizing these solders in the non‐collpasible solder joints of LTCC/PWB assemblies.

Details

Soldering & Surface Mount Technology, vol. 23 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0954-0911

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 2 April 2020

Witold Nawrot and Karol Malecha

The purpose of this paper is to review possibilities of implementing ceramic additive manufacturing (AM) into electronic device production, which can enable great new…

1625

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review possibilities of implementing ceramic additive manufacturing (AM) into electronic device production, which can enable great new possibilities.

Design/methodology/approach

A short introduction into additive techniques is included, as well as primary characterization of structuring capabilities, dielectric performance and applicability in the electronic manufacturing process.

Findings

Ceramic stereolithography (SLA) is suitable for microchannel manufacturing, even using a relatively inexpensive system. This method is suitable for implementation into the electronic manufacturing process; however, a search for better materials is desired, especially for improved dielectric parameters, lowered sintering temperature and decreased porosity.

Practical implications

Relatively inexpensive ceramic SLA, which is now available, could make ceramic electronics, currently restricted to specific applications, more available.

Originality/value

Ceramic AM is in the beginning phase of implementation in electronic technology, and only a few reports are currently available, the most significant of which is mentioned in this paper.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 37 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

1 – 10 of 57