Molex ships 100 millionth antenna with laser direct structuring (LDS) technology

LISLE, USA: Molex Inc. has shipped its 100 millionth antenna with Laser Direct Structuring (LDS) technology. Molex, the global leader for LDS and two-shot antennas, originally developed LDS antennas in 2006 as a research project. Since the company began mass production in 2008, demand for LDS antennas has grown dramatically and now contributes to more than half of the Molex antenna shipments.

Using a 3D laser system, LDS technology allows the transfer of the antenna design from CAD data onto a molded antenna carrier or even directly onto the device structure.

“The full 3D radiator design freedom of the LDS technology gives our customers the ability to manage the increased RF content in mobile devices, especially with the launch of the first 4G devices. Space will be the key issue. We see a growing demand for LDS to replace the previously used flex antenna technology, particularly for Smartphone applications,’’ said Ellen McMillan, antenna business unit director, Molex.

Key advantages of the technology include greater flexibility for fast design changes and the possibility of creating antenna structures on a 3D surface. LDS technology also allows customers a higher level of product integration with fewer components and lower costs. Molex offers a variety of subassembly services ranging from mechanical assembly to SMT and provides a fully vertically integrated product.

“Our customers value Molex’s vertical manufacturing approach. The entire LDS antenna manufacturing process – from molding, lasering, plating and cosmetic painting to assembly and RF and audio testing – is done under one roof. This strength in 3D antenna manufacturing combined with the Molex RF technologies for small size multi-band antennas gives us a unique position in the market,” added McMillan.