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IWR1642: RF Hardware Simulation Models

Anirudh Ramesh42
Prodigy 170 points
Part Number: IWR1642
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: AWR1642

Hi,

I'm currently using the IWR1642 for a fluid level-measurement application and I'm interested in developing a custom horn antenna for the same. I had a chance to browse the preliminary RF Hardware Design Guide - the application note that describes two xWRx PCBs as sample RF reference designs.

Along the same lines, would I be able to access any 3D EM simulation models for the BGA-to-PCB transition, the GCPW transmission line, and the RF fan-out? Should these be unavailable for public access, would the S parameter files for both the RX and TX paths be available? Further, what reference had been chosen for the measurement of these antenna properties?

Thanks,

Anirudh

  • 0
    TI__Mastermind 37500 points

    Hello,

    The board simulation from the Tx Rx signal connections to the antenna is not available.  This is EVM board specific.    The Spice models of the Tx and Rx signals are also not provided.   In the TI mmwave Radar sensor RF PCB Design, Manufacting, and Validation Guide there is information about the Grounded CoPlanar Waveguide, and Antenna stripline.  I have attached the information about the 1642 EVM BOOST antenna structure, and the Hardware design checklist.

    Please also refer to the Cadence layout (there is a free viewer) there are 50 ohm compensation GND voids under the Tx and Rx BGA pads L2 , there is special attachment of the PMIC and Analog GND to L2, L5 in the layout.

    Regards,

    Joe Quintal

    TImmwave_Radarsensor_RFPCBDesign_Manuf_Validation_spracg5.pdf3465.AWR1642_AWR1443_antennas_simulation2.pdfHardwareDesignChecklist_V0p7_IWR1642_SWRR151.xlsx

  • 0 in reply to Radio-Joe
    Prodigy 170 points
    Hello, Joe,

    Thanks very much for the response, you've certainly answered my question!

    I did find the RF PCB Design, Manufacting, and Validation Guide very helpful, and I hadn't recently gotten a chance to scan the literature for new updates until you shared the link in your answer.

    Would there be any other resources that you think would be potentially helpful for the RF simulation and design?

    Thanks,

    Anirudh
  • 0 in reply to Anirudh Ramesh42
    TI__Mastermind 37500 points
    Hello My suggestion would be to take the IWr1642 BOOST EVM layout Cadence, or the Altium Vault AWR1642 layout, and build a piecewise model
    from the 50 ohm transmit, receive ball through the GCPW, stripline, to a reference single pad 50 ohm reference antenna, and as you develop your antenna, replace the reference antenna, with your antenna. Note: you might make adjustments for GPCW width, spacing, and stripline but they should first be checked with your 50 ohm reference. Note: the existing antenna measurements can be taken from L1 of the layout drawing, with the traces included, there is a DXF file in the package for the antenna also.
    Regards
    Joe Quintal