Optenni Lab helped Intel designers to create NFC antenna matching networks more efficiently and to shorten the time used for the design.

The Design Task

Intel develops Near Field Communication (NFC) solutions for PCs, tablets and smartphones. Due to stringent size restrictions the antennas must be small, thus providing inherently weak coupling between the TX and RX antennas. In order to meet the specifications, the coupling must be improved by a high quality matching network.

The Optenni Solution

Optenni Lab provides theoretically optimal matching networks from a library of characterized components, to bound what is achievable with a given NFC antenna geometry. This enables the design team to quickly rank different antenna candidates, and to develop in a predictable time frame certifiable solutions that meet user experience expectations.

The link to VNA is a big asset, as it enables a single workflow for both concept development and prototyping. The optimization uses component manufacturer models which is very important in order to achieve a realistic version even in the very beginning.