T2.6: SAW filter packaging design, development and production [M06-M21, M24-M36]

The objective of this task is to provide a package complying with requirements and specifications of WP1. At the end of that task, devices are ready for their final RF characterization and qualification by ALT as an output of task T5.4 in order to validate a TRL of up to 7 for POI based SAW filter. To achieve this objective, TAS will be in charge of mechanical and RF package design, package selection, and packaging process flow. TAS will also put in place procurement policy for high volume packaging solution supporting SOI. Two packaging cases will be considered: a hermetic package and a non-hermetic package. The choice of hermeticity will be driven by the output of task 5.3 leaded by ALT where preliminary reliability test will assess this aspect. As back-up solution, fully hermetic, space qualified ceramic package will be envisaged. For non-hermetic package, which is HOMEMADE project base line, air cavity plastic package will be investigated. The manufacturing of this specific plastic package will be subcontracted to European supplier like SENCIO. Co engineering will be used between TAS and SOI to adapt SAW filter design and process as developed respectively in T2.1 and T2.2. TAS will perform 3D electromagnetic design with support of SAW filter model supplied by SOI. For RF power application, analysis will be performed to ensure that selected package will fit both low level and high-power applications. SOI will adapt ITS SAW process like RF pads to ensure high yield ball bonding and gluing available into TAS SIP production line. TAS will also develop the necessary test jig to perform production screening test of encapsulated POI based SAW filters.
To explore non hermetic packaging solution of SAW filter quantity higher than 10,000 per year for other sector than space, SOI will explore SENCIO encapsulation high volume capability. Note that the plastic package will be based on same package design as proposed by TAS so that qualification performed by ALT in WP5 will be applicable. For this purpose, SOI will subcontract to SENCIO the packaging of a small batch of 100 GPS filter, in addition to bare plastic package supplied to the project.