Hi Nordic team,
I have a question regarding the RF matching networks used in the nRF54LM20A-PAAA reference design and in the nRF7002 Expansion Board II (PCA63571).
For the nRF54LM20A-PAAA reference design, the RF path from the ANT pin includes the following matching network:
ANT → 3.6 nH series → 1.2 pF shunt → 4.7 nH series → 1.5 pF shunt → 3.3 nH series → antenna/test connector area
Could you clarify whether this network is primarily required to match the nRF54LM20A RF pin itself to 50 Ω, or whether some of it is mainly related to the specific antenna/PCB layout used on the DK?
In our design, we are considering routing the RF path to a 2.4 GHz antenna, with optional DNP/DNM tuning components included near the antenna. Should we keep the full reference matching network from the ANT pin before the antenna-side tuning network, or would a simpler placeholder matching network be recommended when using a different antenna?
I have a similar question regarding the nRF7002 Expansion Board II (PCA63571). The reference design uses the LFD182G45DCJD247 diplexer and an NN03-320 dual-band SMD antenna with surrounding tuning components. In our design, we are considering keeping the nRF7002-to-diplexer structure, but replacing the SMD antenna side with a 50 Ω RF path to an edge-mounted SMA connector.
In that case, should the antenna-side matching components from the EBII reference design be kept, or should the diplexer COM output be routed as a controlled 50 Ω path to the SMA with only optional DNP/DNM tuning placeholders?
I understand that the final result depends heavily on PCB stack-up, layout, antenna placement, enclosure, and VNA/radiated measurements, but I would like to know which parts of the reference matching networks should be treated as mandatory RF pin matching and which parts are antenna/layout-specific tuning.
Thank you in advance.
Best regards,
Samuel