nRF7002 antenna matching circuit

[rolandash]

Dear Nordic,

This post is successor of  https://devzone.nordicsemi.com/f/nordic-q-a/122755/nrf7002-rfbuck-vdd-voltage as continuous of the work.

Although there are still some corner issues around that can be improved, the custom board seems working good now. I can scan, connect and transfer data in smooth. Massive data transfer tests for throughputs measurements are not performed yet, as I would like to optimize the RF circuit performance first. 

Current custom hardware uses a PIFA antenna. Its' performance currently seems at the same level with 7002-EK in terms of RSSI value observed. I believe it can be further improved by tuning the antenna matching circuit. However when I check into 7002-EK's antenna circuit, it looks bit strange to me that the matching circuit is all populated with inductors. 

I am not sure if this design of matching components are specific requirements from the Diplexer, or the NN03 antenna on 7002 EK board? I will be very appreciated if there are some break-down information about considerations behind the matching circuit of 7002-EK.

Thank you in advance.

/Roland

[mathiaso]

Hi, Roland.

The matching network used on the nRF7002 EK should be the result of the performance of a practical matching procedure. In some cases, the optimum matching network ends up containing only inductors. The matching network will usually end up different if changing either the design of the board itself, the antenna, or both. The diplexer shouldn't have any impact on this.

Best regards,
Mathias