High Directivity Couplers using Multilayer Organics (MLO)

This paper presents the design and fabrication of a stand-alone high directivity coupler using high dielectric constant multilayer organic (MLO) technology. MLO is a low cost high density interconnect technology that allows for the realization of high Q and low loss inductor and capacitor elements that allow for the miniaturization of RF and mixed signal circuits. Q values above 300 have been measured for MLO with costs being lower than both LTCC and TFOS technologies. Low-loss lumped and distributed elements were realized using a novel multilayer build up process that supports both land grid array (LGA) and edge terminations. The couplers which support frequencies between 700 MHz and 2GHz exhibit coupling coefficients above 20db and isolation greater than 40db. The couplers can be combined with low pass harmonic filters in the same technology.