With the continuous advancement of **3D printing technology**, the manufacturing process for antennas in small or micro devices is undergoing a significant transformation. Recently, Pulse Electronics, a company based in San Diego, introduced the FluidANT series, which includes a 3D printer called **FluidWRITER**. This innovative device can print antennas directly onto 3D objects, opening up new possibilities in antenna design and integration.  The antenna is one of the most critical components in any mobile device. It's estimated that the global market for antennas used in smartphones, routers, and other consumer electronics exceeds $8 billion annually. As the Internet of Things (IoT) becomes more embedded in daily life, this market is expected to grow even faster. Traditionally, manufacturers have used techniques like laser direct structuring (LDS), foil stamping, or flexible substrates to integrate antennas into devices. However, these methods often come with limitations—especially when it comes to cost and material fragility. For example, some substrates are expensive and prone to breaking during the manufacturing process. Pulse Electronics' **FluidWRITER** uses a 6-axis robotic arm along with two additional rotating axes, allowing it to navigate around complex 3D objects while printing antennas using an inkjet system. The ink contains micron-sized silver particles that can be applied to much cheaper materials compared to traditional LDS methods. Materials such as polycarbonate (PC), polyamide (PA), and ABS can serve as substrates for the silver ink. The printed circuit has a depth of 25 microns and a width of 400 microns. Once printed, the ink is cured at temperatures between 100°C and 110°C and is ready for use. The printing speed is impressive—each antenna takes just 6 to 8 seconds to produce. To date, the company has successfully printed over 2 million antennas using this technology. Here are some key features of the **FluidWRITER**: 1. Piezoelectric drive print head for high-precision dispensing 2. Real-time monitoring of the printing process 3. Automatic loading window for safe and easy fixture handling 4. Valve system cooling mechanism 5. Nozzle heating system 6. Pressure control for syringe back pressure 7. 15-inch HMI touch screen interface 8. Intuitive user interface 9. Easy adjustment of tools and fixtures 10. Automatic nozzle cleaning The **FluidWRITER** has an external size of 1280 x 1230 x 1700 mm and weighs approximately 830 kg. It can print at speeds of up to 50 mm per second and supports a maximum build size of 200 x 250 x 150 mm. The system seamlessly integrates with **FluidPATH CADCAM software**, which allows users to simulate and design conductive traces and antennas intuitively. While the current focus is on antenna production, the company also sells the **FluidWRITER** to the market at a price of $160,000. Although the machine is currently used for printing antennas on 3D surfaces, the company is reportedly working on expanding its capabilities to include other types of conductive components. This development could further revolutionize how electronic parts are manufactured in the future.

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