Flexible miniature ribbon cables for long-term connection to implantable sensors

Abstract

This paper describes the development of miniature, multi-lead ribbon cables for connecting implantable sensors to host electronics, either implanted or in the external world. The cables are flexible, electrically stable and biocompatible. Two technologies have been developed: one using polyimide (DuPont PI-2555) and the other using silicon as the support material. The present cables are less than 200 [mu]m wide, are 10 to 20 [mu]m thick and can be of arbitrary length (typically 1-2 cm). They can support as many leads as desired and can be bonded to the sensor substrate using flip-chip bonding techniques.