measure the dielectric constant of the ESP32-Wrover module
Will it be possible to measure the dielectric constant of the ESP32-Wrover module to know if it is FR4 or not? In case, one wants to know the characteristics of the original PCB antenna
9 Replies
I don't think it's easy to do that practically. One thing you can check for is the board stackup from the fabrication files or in the design itself.
By your intent to study characteristics, do you mean the antenna's frequency response? Have a look at this - it's pretty much standard evaluated design for the given stackup https://docs.espressif.com/projects/esp-hardware-design-guidelines/en/latest/esp32/pcb-layout-design.html (link updated)
Thanks! My initial thought was just to avoid the use of an external antenna in a new design. Later, realized as you likely said it won't be an easy task, and Espressif may not share docs and details. So thought let's check with others in the community.
Even FR4 have many grades with different coefficients
yes, exactly. how can one know if at all possible without gerber files?
And different PCB manufacturer provide their dielectric coefficients based on the lot of raw materials
Good point! By the way, board thickness is 0.75-0.8mm
Do you plan on doing RF tuning for antenna after board manufacturing? Otherwise best would be to do the RF antenna routing and calculation based on the PCB manufacturer FR4 dielectric coefficients
I think he should speak with the manufacturer and ask them for guide on proper antenna tuning, to get best results
@Umesh Lokhande Just finish the design, verify it with NanoVNA, for instance and if it fails, you will respin the board. Keep it simple!