Is 4-layer PCB always better than 2-layer ?

RE: Is 4-layer PCB always better than 2-layer ?

sprhawk — Fri, 20 May 2016 14:01:43 GMT

thanks for explanation

RE: Is 4-layer PCB always better than 2-layer ?

sprhawk — Fri, 20 May 2016 14:01:42 GMT

thanks for explanation

RE: Is 4-layer PCB always better than 2-layer ?

MartinBL — Fri, 20 May 2016 10:28:34 GMT

Here are our reference layouts for nRF51. Notice that they are only 2-layer, but as James says, it doesn't necessarily mean that 2 layers are optimal for your particular application. Here are even more reference designs and there are also some Appnotes and White papers with more or less relevant information.

RE: Is 4-layer PCB always better than 2-layer ?

James Yu — Thu, 19 May 2016 16:22:46 GMT

As long as you follow the PCB guidelines in the product specifications it should be fine.

A PCB with a minimum of two layers, including a ground plane, is recommended for optimal performance.
On PCBs with more than two layers, put a keep-out area on the inner layers directly below the antenna
matching circuitry (components between device pins ANT1, ANT2, VDD_PA, and the antenna) to reduce the
stray capacitances that influence RF performance.

So a 2 layer board will be sufficient if you have a pretty solid ground plane with little breaks, otherwise it may be better to go with 4 layers.