NRF52810 - PCB design without external 32.768KHz crystal and without n.c. capacitor pads

[marton]

Hi, I am new to creating boards with RF capabilities, so excuse me if I get anything wrong or missed something.

So, going over the reference layout for the QFN32 version of the NRF52810 (or for any chip for that matter), I see it mentioned that the PCB design needs to be followed as exactly as possible. I am wonderign how much liberty I can take with the design, especially in regard to omitting the extra 32.768 kHz crystal as well as the pads for the non-connected capacitor on DEC2. If I ommit either or both of the two, should I stick to the same layout otherwise (i.e. fill the omitted space with ground plane)?

Either way, would I also need to change the matching network for the chip?

Many thanks in advance!

Best,
Marton

[JONATHAN LL]

Hi Marton

marton said:

Either way, would I also need to change the matching network for the chip?

When it comes to RF the answer is usually yes you will have to match your network regardless if you want the best results. This is because RF is sensitive and any change will usually impact the result in some way, change in PCB thickness, trace thickness, amount of layers in the PCB, the total amount of ground plane area and casing to name a few. 

Sticking to the reference layout makes the proses easier but filling the omitted space whit GND is within reason

Reagrds, 
Jonathan

[marton]

Thanks a lot, I really appreciate it!