IT180A Material: High-Performance PCB Laminate for Advanced Applications

In the ever-evolving world of electronics, the choice of PCB (Printed Circuit Board) material significantly influences the performance, reliability, and longevity of a circuit. Among the many high-performance PCB laminates available, IT180A, developed by ITEQ Corporation, is one of the most widely used materials for high-speed, high-frequency, and multilayer PCB designs.

IT180A offers high glass transition temperature (Tg), low dielectric loss (Df), excellent thermal stability, and high reliability, making it an ideal choice for applications requiring superior electrical performance. This article explores the properties, advantages, applications, and comparison of IT180A with other high-end PCB materials to help engineers and manufacturers make informed decisions.

What is IT180A-Material?

IT180-A is a high-Tg, low-loss, FR-4-based PCB laminate developed by ITEQ Corporation. It is designed to provide improved thermal, mechanical, and electrical performance compared to traditional FR-4 materials. With its Tg of 175°C or higher, IT180A can withstand high temperatures, ensuring stability in lead-free soldering and high-power applications.

Unlike standard FR-4, which struggles with signal loss and thermal degradation, IT180A has been engineered to provide low dielectric loss (Df ≤ 0.015 at 1GHz) and excellent thermal stability, making it well-suited for high-speed communication, automotive electronics, and industrial applications.

Datasheet of IT180A-Material

IT180A-Material

Key Properties of IT180A-Material

1. High Glass Transition Temperature (Tg ≥ 175°C)

The glass transition temperature (Tg) is the temperature at which the laminate transitions from a rigid to a softened state. IT180A’s Tg of 175°C or higher makes it highly resistant to thermal stress, ensuring dimensional stability and mechanical reliability even in extreme environments.

2. Low Dielectric Constant (Dk) and Dissipation Factor (Df)

For high-frequency and high-speed applications, maintaining signal integrity is crucial. IT180A offers:

• Dielectric Constant (Dk): ~4.3 (@ 1GHz)
• Dissipation Factor (Df): ≤ 0.015 (@ 1GHz)

These properties reduce signal loss and crosstalk, ensuring stable performance in RF and high-speed digital applications.

3. Excellent Thermal Reliability

IT180A provides superior thermal stability compared to standard FR-4:

• Decomposition Temperature (Td) > 340°C, preventing material degradation at high temperatures.
• Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) is low, ensuring minimal expansion under heat.
• Thermal Conductivity: 0.4 W/m·K, improving heat dissipation and reducing hot spots.

4. High Mechanical Strength

IT180-A offers excellent peel strength, low Z-axis expansion, and high flexural strength, making it ideal for:

• Multilayer PCBs (MLBs)
• Fine-pitch designs
• PCBs requiring multiple lamination cycles

5. RoHS Compliance and Lead-Free Process Compatibility

IT180A fully supports lead-free soldering and complies with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) regulations, making it an environmentally friendly choice for PCB manufacturing.

Advantages of IT180A Over Standard FR-4

From the table above, IT180-A significantly outperforms standard FR-4 in thermal stability, signal integrity, and mechanical durability, making it the preferred choice for high-end PCB applications.

Applications of IT180A-Material

Due to its high performance and reliability, IT180-A is widely used in high-speed, high-frequency, and high-temperature applications across multiple industries.

1. High-Speed Digital and Networking Equipment

• Servers and Data Centers – IT180-A ensures stable high-speed data transmission.
• Telecommunications (5G, Optical Networks) – Used in base stations, fiber optic transceivers, and routers.
• Switches and High-Speed Interconnects – Ensures minimal signal loss and excellent impedance control.

2. Automotive Electronics

• ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) – Supports radar, LiDAR, and sensor integration.
• Electric Vehicle (EV) Power Modules – Provides high heat resistance and reliability.
• Battery Management Systems (BMS) – Used in high-power automotive control circuits.

3. Aerospace and Defense Electronics

• Radar and RF Communication Systems – Low-loss performance is critical in military and aerospace applications.
• Satellite Electronics – Withstands extreme temperatures and harsh environments.
• Avionics Control Systems – Ensures stable electrical performance in high-altitude conditions.

4. Industrial and Medical Equipment

• Industrial Automation – Reliable PCB designs for factory automation and control systems.
• Medical Imaging Equipment – Supports precision electronics in MRI, CT scanners, and diagnostic devices.
• Instrumentation and Measurement Devices – Provides stable signal transmission for high-precision measurements.

Comparison with Other High-Performance PCB Materials

IT180-A competes with other high-performance PCB materials such as Rogers 4350B, Isola 370HR, and Panasonic Megtron 6. Here’s how they compare:

While IT180A is an affordable and high-performance option, for extreme high-frequency applications, Rogers and Megtron 6 laminates might be preferred.

Conclusion

IT180A-material is a high-Tg, low-loss PCB laminate designed for high-speed, high-reliability applications. With its excellent thermal stability, signal integrity, and mechanical strength, IT180-A is an ideal choice for telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, and industrial electronics.

For businesses seeking high-quality PCB manufacturing, Shenzhen Shuoqiang Electronics specializes in IT180A-based PCB production, offering custom solutions for advanced electronic applications. Contact us today to get started with your next project!
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