What is the Difference Between Rogers 4003C and 4350B?

Rogers Corporation is known for manufacturing high-performance printed circuit board (PCB) materials. Two of the most widely used materials in the industry are Rogers 4003C and Rogers 4350B. While both are popular choices for RF (Radio Frequency) applications, they have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different use cases. This article explores the key differences between Rogers 4003C and 4350B.

1. Material Composition

Rogers 4003C is a low-loss, thermoset laminate material that is designed for high-frequency applications. It is made from a blend of woven fiberglass and PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), which provides excellent dielectric properties. The 4003C offers a lower loss factor, making it ideal for high-speed digital and RF circuits where signal integrity is crucial.

Rogers 4350B, on the other hand, is a high-performance thermoset material made from woven fiberglass and a ceramic-filled polymer. It is designed specifically for high-frequency applications and provides excellent thermal stability and low signal loss. The 4350B is particularly known for its superior mechanical properties and is suitable for demanding applications requiring higher power handling.

2. Dielectric Constant (Dk)

The dielectric constant (Dk) is a critical factor in selecting PCB materials for RF applications. Rogers 4003C has a Dk of 3.38 at 10 GHz, which is slightly lower compared to the Dk of 3.48 for Rogers 4350B at the same frequency. The lower Dk of 4003C helps reduce signal distortion and allows for more precise impedance control, making it better suited for high-speed digital circuits.

3. Loss Tangent (Df)

The loss tangent (Df) indicates the amount of signal loss that occurs due to the material's internal resistance. Rogers 4003C has a lower loss tangent (0.0027) compared to Rogers 4350B, which has a loss tangent of 0.0037. This lower loss tangent makes Rogers 4003C a better option for high-frequency applications where minimizing signal loss is essential.

4. Thermal and Mechanical Properties

Rogers 4350B excels in thermal stability and is able to handle higher temperatures and mechanical stress compared to 4003C. This makes it an ideal choice for applications where durability and heat resistance are critical, such as power amplifiers and automotive systems.

Conclusion

In summary, Rogers 4003C and 4350B are both excellent materials for RF applications, but they have different strengths. Rogers 4003C is better suited for high-speed digital circuits and low-loss RF applications, while Rogers 4350B offers superior thermal and mechanical properties, making it ideal for demanding, high-power applications. Choosing the right material depends on the specific needs of the project, such as signal integrity, temperature resistance, and mechanical durability.