Integrated High Frequency Linear Transducer Array for Needle Biopsy Probe

We are developing a high frequency ultrasound imaging array for a needle biopsy probe. The goal of this work is to integrate a 64 channel high frequency linear array fabricated using PMN-PT transducer material alongside a high voltage CMOS ASIC. The ASIC is designed to multiplex the signals from the array to a single cable for synthetic aperture imaging. In this paper we discuss some of the challenges in this development and present initial results. The 64 channel transducer array was first assembled to a single layer flex circuit using gold bumps and silver-loaded epoxy. Pulse/echo data was obtained for this first prototype assembly. In addition to the gold bumped assembly, we have used silver coated glass beads and silver epoxy for assembly, and present initial results for this assembly as well.