Multi-Mix® Application Notes

The "Level of Integration" Question

The level of integration achieved utilizing Multi-Mix Microtechnology™ can be quantified by a factor we may call the Integration Quotient (Iq). The Integration Quotient is defined as the number of components per unit volume. The overall volume is determined by the package outline. The number of components includes resistors, capacitors, inductors, discrete semiconductors, MMICs, microwave circuits, and signal vias.

The level of integration achieved to date, is illustrated by the example of a multi-channel vector modulator which contains 188 components in a volume of 1.1025 cubic inches (outline 3.5x1.5x0.21). In this case Iq = 170.5 components per cubic inch.

The level of integration achievable, is illustrated by the example of a 30x51 switch matrix which contains 79356 components in a volume of 34.5 cubic inches (outline 10.x5.0x0.69). In this case Iq = 2300 components per cubic inch.