ESP32 Forum

Hi

I am using ESP32 S3 MINI 1U on a 4 layer PCB. The 2nd layer and the 3rd layer are ground plane.
My question is: do I need to define a cut-out area on these two ground planes underneath the IPEX connector on the MINI 1U module?

If yes, what is the dimension required?

John

In general, leaving a clearance of at least a few millimetres around the IPEX connector footprint should be sufficient. However, you can check the datasheet: https://www.espressif.com/sites/default ... eet_en.pdf

Hi

I can find information of antenna placement for onboard antenna like attached. But that is for onboard PCB antenna. For IPEX I can't find anything similar. Maybe I have missed something?

John

Hi

There is an indirect information borrowing from Nordic's nRF52840 EVK. Its layout is open to the public(in Altium Designer format). Attached please find two screen captures :
1. File "Nordic_nRF52840_EVK_Layout1.png" shows the normal 3D view. There is a ground polygon pour around the U.FL connector.
2. File "Nordic_nRF52840_EVK_Layout2.png" shows the 3D view with all 4 layers combined in one picture. There is ground cut-out for the 2nd and 3rd layers. The interesting part is on the 4th layer which shows a complete ground pour without any cut-out for the U.FL connector.

My guess is that: when the EPS32 S3 MINI 1U module is placed on a PCB (baseboard), there is no longer required to define any cut-out under the IPEX connector because the module itself has the necessary cut in the module itself. The U.FL/IPEX connector guarantees that it is a 50Ohm co-axial cable and connector structure to connect to an external antenna no matter there is a ground plane under the module or not.

Any body has experience/comment on it?

John