Reflectors (in some SAW designs): Pitch 0.8-2.0 μm (λ/2 to λ)

Component Specifications

Definition

Reflectors in Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) filter designs are precisely patterned metallic electrodes deposited on piezoelectric substrates. They function by reflecting acoustic waves at specific points along the propagation path, creating constructive and destructive interference patterns that define the filter's frequency characteristics. These components are critical for achieving sharp roll-off, low insertion loss, and precise bandwidth control in RF and microwave applications.

Working Principle

Reflectors operate based on the principle of acoustic wave reflection at impedance discontinuities. When a SAW propagates along the piezoelectric substrate and encounters a metallic reflector pattern, part of the wave energy reflects back due to the mechanical and electrical boundary conditions. Multiple reflectors are arranged in periodic or weighted arrays to create standing wave patterns that selectively pass or reject specific frequency bands through interference effects.

Materials

Aluminum (Al) or aluminum-copper alloys (Al-Cu) with thicknesses of 100-200 nm, deposited on lithium niobate (LiNbO₃) or lithium tantalate (LiTaO₃) piezoelectric substrates. Gold (Au) may be used for high-reliability applications.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Pitch	0.8-2.0 μm (λ/2 to λ)
Aperture	20-100 λ
Reflectivity	0.7-0.95 per reflector
Number Of Fingers	50-200 per reflector
Temperature Coefficient	-40 to -80 ppm/°C
Insertion Loss Contribution	0.1-0.5 dB

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

IEEE 176, IEC 60122, MIL-STD-883

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Filter (Bandpass/SAW)

An electronic component that selectively passes signals within a specific frequency range while attenuating others, used in receiver circuits.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Metal migration under high power
Substrate cracking from thermal stress
Contamination during fabrication
Frequency drift with temperature changes

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Electromigration in thin metal films
Failure: Increased insertion loss and degraded frequency response
Mitigation: Use aluminum-copper alloys, implement current density limits, and apply protective coatings

Trigger: Piezoelectric substrate defects
Failure: Spurious responses and reduced stopband rejection
Mitigation: Implement strict incoming material inspection and use double-polished substrates

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

±0.1% frequency tolerance, ±0.05 μm pattern accuracy

Test Method

Network analyzer measurements (S-parameters), laser interferometry for displacement, SEM for pattern verification

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

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Inspection readiness

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Supplier transparency

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Manufacturers of Reflectors (in some SAW designs)

Manufacturer profiles associated with Reflectors (in some SAW designs).

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between reflectors and transducers in SAW filters?

Transducers convert electrical signals to acoustic waves and vice versa, while reflectors only reflect acoustic waves without energy conversion. Reflectors shape the frequency response through interference patterns.

How do reflector patterns affect filter performance?

Reflector pitch determines the center frequency, while the number and weighting of reflectors control bandwidth, sidelobe suppression, and roll-off characteristics. Optimized patterns minimize insertion loss and improve selectivity.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Reflectors (in some SAW designs)