Unveiling the Future: Insights on Next-Gen Megtron Materials 

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

In this interview from DesignCon, Jim Kenny, OEM business development manager at Panasonic, touches on next-generation Megtron materials and delves into the industry's growing demand for high-speed, low-loss laminate systems, particularly in light of the anticipated 224 gigabits per second technology. With a focus on material development and production timelines, Jim highlights the challenges and opportunities in meeting customer needs while also maintaining quality and supply chain stability. As Panasonic prepares for the evolving landscape, they remain committed to innovating in this competitive market.

Marcy LaRont: Jim, how has Design Con been going? 

Jim Kenny: It's been really busy, with a lot of foot traffic, new people, new faces that we don't normally see, plus a chance to network with many of the folks at companies we are already working with.

LaRont: What are people coming to Panasonic to talk about?

Kenny: They want to talk with us about 224 gigabits per second systems, what circuit board materials we will have ready for that market, and when will they become available. We're talking about the next generation of Megtron. It's the industry standard for high speed, low loss laminate, along with the corresponding prepregs as well, of course.

Attendees want to know how they can get the performance they need out of the laminate, and how they can use this laminate with their existing equipment and not have to buy additional pieces of equipment that cost money, take up real estate, and use more power. 

LaRont: Are you actively working with customers on projects?

Kenny: Of course. we've got several customers that we're working with directly on next-generation materials. We tend to work with selected OEMs and the specific board shops that support those OEMs to develop technology. Once we have process and design rules developed, we go back out to the rest of the industry and release it more broadly. 

LaRont: Do you have a specific timeline yet for the release of the next-generation Megtron material? 

Kenny: Nothing we can share quite yet. Part of the timing is dependent on our supply chain development. Some of the raw materials going into this next generation laminate aren't fully commercialized themselves. It will take at least a year for them to ramp to full volume. Even if there was demand today, it would take them a year to be ready. We’re working on our production planning in parallel with our customer testing and qualification so that we will be well prepared when the demand tidal wave hits. 

LaRont: That sounds daunting, actually. 

Kenny: Yes, but we just experienced it with the 112 gig system, so we know what will happen when 224 hits the big time. 

LaRont: Panasonic is obviously up to a lot of great things, and material supply is the topic du jour these days.

Kenny: Everyone has been supply constrained recently. We’re bringing on new suppliers and qualifying a lot of new glass so that we can support the low Dk glass and the ultra-low Dk glass requirements that are part of the 112 systems right now. 

LaRont: Are you having any issues with accessing copper? 

Kenny: Copper has not been an issue for us to date. But you always have to keep an eye open because you never know when it's going to bite you, so we’re securing our future copper supply. 

LaRont: Jim, it's been great talking to you. We look forward to hearing more about Panasonic’s next-generation Megatron materials as things develop, and we'll definitely look forward to seeing you at Apex. 

Kenny: Thanks. Very nice to meet you. 

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Panasonic Electronic Materials