The selected SMD component package size is an important factor for the RF path and checking the component size in the reference design is vital. This information is typically found in the Bill of Materials (BOM) included with the reference design.

Using the incorrect component package size with a chosen reference design results in degraded performance. Specific details about hardware design considerations for the RF path are found in the application note, CC13xx/CC26xx Hardware Configuration and PCB Design Considerations.

Currently, the TI reference designs use component package size 0402 or 0201 in the RF path. Use the imperial size code (inches) when referring to component package sizes in this document.

When a TI reference design does not exist for a given component package size, using 0201 or 0402 components in a design can produce the same RF radio performance if the RF path is re-optimized to account for the change in the impedance presented to the RF port (that results from using a different component size).

Using 0201 package size components have the following advantages compared to 0402 package size components:

• More compact RF layout
• Tighter component tolerances available
• The more compact RF layout results in lower unwanted EMI emissions
• Generally cheaper than the equivalent 0402 package size components

Reference designs for devices, CC13x1, CC13x2P7, and CC13x4, use 0201 package size components, while devices CC13x0 and CC13x2 use 0402 or 0201, depending on the design and the component package size used, therefore, package size components must be checked as part of the design process.

The primary reference designs and the component package sizes used are listed in Table 2-11.