Problem with Antenna on custom board

[TLloydUom]

I recently got a custom board manufactured using an NRF52840 with the TI AN043 antenna to find that everything worked except for the bluetooth antenna.  So I'm here to seek advice on how to fix my design for a version two of the board.  Attached is the layout and schematic where the microcontroller connects to the antenna.

[Marjeris Romero]

Hi,

You should take a look at our reference design and try to copy our schematic and layout, specially for the RF components. You can download the files from the nRF52840 product page, or here Download nRF52840 CKAA reference layout v1.0 [ZIP]

For the CKAA WLCSP package the RF matching network should look like this:

You should also follow the reference layout closely, as any change to the layout can change the behavior, resulting in a degradation of the RF performance.

I recommend you take a look at the PCB guidelines chapter in the nRF52840 Product specification as well (chapter 7.3.13).

If you open a private case you can share your schematic and layout files with us and get a review from us before manufacturing next time, as it's difficult to perform review based on only some pictures.

Best Regards,

Marjeris

[TLloydUom]

Hi Marjeris,

Would I be able to raise a private case so that I can share my schematics/layout?

Many thanks,

Tom

[Marjeris Romero]

Hi Thomas,

Yes, just choose "private" when opening a case. I see you already have done that, one of my colleagues is already working on reviewing your files and will continue the discussion there.

Best Regards,

Marjeris