Date: 06/12/2026
About this Forum:
The rapid evolution of wireless communication, radar, and sensing systems drives continuous innovation in high-frequency and RF printed circuit board (PCB) technology. As operating frequencies extend into millimeter-wave and sub-THz bands, conventional design and manufacturing approaches increasingly face performance, loss, and reliability limits. This presentation provides a comprehensive overview of the technological status quo for high-end RF PCB development at Rohde & Schwarz. We begin by examining current trends in PCB production and assessing the present status quo across design and fabrication workflows. The discussion then focuses on RF-specific PCB topics for 5G-Advanced, 6G, and next-generation systems, with particular attention to low-loss substrate materials. We further explore PCB-based submount and packaging technologies that enable high-density integration,flexible mm-wave module assembly, and competitive solutions for high power applications. Finally, we outline current research initiatives addressing signal integrity at extreme frequencies and advanced interconnect techniques. By bridging material science, RF engineering, and advanced packaging, Rohde & Schwarz continues to advance the state-of-the-art in high-frequency PCB technology, offering practical insights for researchers and industry professionals developing next-generation RF systems.
The Rodgers RLE Forum is a time to appreciate and learn from examples of impactful engineering. The laboratory hosts these opportunities for engagement in support of its mission to serve as a cutting-edge hub for advancing and sharing knowledge and best practices in high-performance prototyping.
About the presenters:
Stefan Zorn received the Dipl.Ing. degree in electronics engineering and the Dr. Ing. degree from Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany, in 2007 and 2012, respectively. His research field has been the precise localization of mobile phones in natural disaster scenarios. 2012 to 2022, he has been the Head of research and development PCB technology. Since 2020, he has been the Director of technology and development with Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Company KG, Teisnach, Germany. He has also been with the Chair of RF-PCB-Engineering, Deggendorf Institute of Technology, Deggendorf, Germany, since 2016.
Franz Röhrl received the M.Sc. degree in electrical engineering and information technology from the Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany, in 2013, and the Dr. Ing. degree from Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany, in 2020. Since 2014, he has been holding a Lectureship position with Deggendorf Institute of Technology, Deggendorf, Germany, with a focus on RF circuitry. In parallel, since 2016, he has been a Specialist of PCB technology for millimeter-wave applications. Since 2022, he has also been the Head of research and development PCB technology with Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Company KG, Teisnach, Germany. His research interests include the design and optimization of high-frequency millimeter-wave submounts and packages.
Jürgen Ostermeier is a seasoned engineering executive with over 25 years of expertise in radio frequency (RF) systems and precision signal generator technology. He earned his Diplom-Ingenieur degree in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Telecommunications from the Munich University of Applied Sciences (Hochschule München) in 1996.
Jürgen launched his career in hardware development, specializing in the design of RF and synthesizer modules for test & measurement signal generators. Through a combination of strong technical skill and project management experience, he progressively advanced to Lead Hardware Design Engineer and R&D Project Leader, shaping product development and cross-functional engineering initiatives. Since August 2014, he has served as Director of R&D for Microwave (µW) Signal Generators in Munich, where he continues to lead innovation in high-frequency and low-power measurement instrumentation.
Rohde & Schwarz is a German multinational company that specializes in the design and manufacture of electronic test and measurement equipment, broadcasting equipment, secure communications, and radiomonitoring solutions. Founded in 1933, the company has grown to become a leading provider of high-precision instruments and systems used in a wide range of industries, including telecommunications, aerospace and defense, automotive, and electronics manufacturing.
Key Areas of Focus:
- Test and Measurement:
- Rohde & Schwarz is renowned for its test and measurement instruments, which include spectrum analyzers, signal generators, network analyzers, oscilloscopes, and power meters. These tools are essential for the development, production, and maintenance of electronic systems.
- Broadcasting and Media:
- The company provides equipment for broadcasting and media technology, including transmitters, broadcast monitoring systems, and solutions for audio and video production. Their products are used by television and radio broadcasters worldwide.
- Secure Communications:
- Rohde & Schwarz develops secure communication solutions for government and military applications. This includes encryption systems, secure radios, and secure voice and data transmission equipment.
- Cybersecurity:
- The company also offers cybersecurity solutions, including network security appliances, data protection software, and security testing tools to help organizations protect their digital infrastructure.
- Radiomonitoring and Radiolocation:
- Rohde & Schwarz provides advanced solutions for radiomonitoring and radiolocation, which are used for spectrum management, signal intelligence, and direction finding.