Product Overview
Rogers RO4003C is a proprietary woven glass reinforced hydrocarbon/ceramic laminate that delivers the electrical performance of PTFE/woven glass with the manufacturability of epoxy/glass. This ceramic-filled thermoset composite is reinforced with microfiber glass fabric and engineered specifically for high-frequency analog and digital circuits operating up to 3GHz
Key Technical Specifications
Electrical Properties:
- Dielectric Constant (Dk): 3.38 ± 0.05 at 10GHz (process), 3.55 (design)
- Dissipation Factor (Tan δ): 0.0027 at 10GHz
- Low loss tangent ensures signals propagate with minimal attenuation, remaining below 0.005 up to 3GHz
Thermal Properties:
- Thermal Conductivity: 0.71 W/m/°K at 50°C
- Thermal Coefficient of Dielectric Constant: 40 ppm/°C (-50°C to 150°C)
- Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 11 ppm/°C (X), 14 ppm/°C (Y), 46 ppm/°C (Z)
Physical Properties:
- Density: 1.8 gm/cm³
- Water Absorption: 0.04% (D48/50%)
- Peel Strength: 6.0 lbs/in (1.05 N/mm) for 1 oz ED foil
Manufacturing Advantages
RO4003C provides tight control on dielectric constant and low loss while utilizing the same processing method as standard epoxy/glass but at a fraction of the cost of conventional microwave laminatesUnlike PTFE-based microwave materials, no special through-hole treatments or handling procedures are required RO4003C™ Laminates.
Key Manufacturing Benefits:
- Compatible with standard FR-4 fabrication processes
- Lead-free process compatible
- No special drilling or via preparation required
- Cost-effective alternative to traditional microwave laminates
- Available in various configurations utilizing both 1080 and 1674 glass fabric styles
Applications
Rogers 4003C is ideal for demanding RF and microwave applications including:
- Wireless Communications: Base stations, antenna systems, cellular infrastructure
- Automotive: Radar systems, telematics, infotainment systems
- Aerospace & Defense: Military radar, satellite communications, avionics
- Industrial: Test equipment, medical devices, IoT applications
- RF Components: Power amplifiers, filters, couplers, antennas
Performance Benefits
Superior Electrical Performance:
- Stable dielectric constant of 3.55 with tight tolerances allows circuit designers to engineer precise, consistent impedances
- Excellent signal integrity at microwave frequencies
- Low insertion loss for efficient power transmission
Reliability & Stability:
- Excellent thermal conductivity allows heat dissipation in the dielectric layer, helping maintain signal integrity and component life at high power levels
- Dimensional stability across temperature ranges
- Low moisture absorption for consistent performance in humid environments
Important Considerations
RO4003C materials are non-brominated and are not UL 94 V-0 rated. For applications requiring UL 94 V-0 flame rating, Rogers recommends RO4835™ and RO4350B™ laminates.
Rogers 4003C represents an optimal balance of high-frequency performance, manufacturing ease, and cost-effectiveness, making it the preferred choice for engineers developing next-generation RF and microwave circuits across multiple industries.
