PA modules boost GSM and EDGE signals Designed for use as the final RF amplifier, the new devices feature a control range of more than 50 dB

Janine Love

eeProductCenter (02/08/2005 11:41 AM ET)

Greensboro, NC—RF Micro Devices, Inc. introduced two new PowerStar power amplifier modules for GSM and EDGE. Measuring 6x6x1.4mm, the devices are more than 30 percent smaller than the previous generation of PA modules. The quad-band RF3158 (GSM/GPRS/EDGE) is optimized for linear EDGE using either direct in-phase (I) and quadrature (Q) modulators or small-signal polar modulation. The quad-band RF3166 (GSM/GPRS) is optimized for GSM/GPRS class 12 operation.

Both devices feature integrated battery voltage (VBATT) tracking circuitry, which automatically measures battery voltage and adjusts ramp voltage, thereby preventing the power control loop from reaching saturation during low voltage battery conditions. VBATT tracking circuitry also significantly reduces transients, which occur at low battery voltage conditions and can reduce efficiency.

Using the company's low-cost laminate module substrate technology, the RF3158 and RF3166 are self-contained PA modules with 50-ohm input and more than 50 dB of control range. The RF3158 is designed for use as the final RF amplifier in GSM/EDGE, GSM850, DCS and PCS handheld digital cellular equipment and other applications operating in the 824 MHz to 915 MHz and 1710 MHz to 1910 MHz bands. The RF3166 is designed for use as the final RF amplifier in GSM850, EGSM900, DCS and PCS handheld digital cellular equipment and other applications operating in the 824 MHz to 849 MHz, 880 MHz to 915 MHz, 1710 MHz to 1785 MHz, and 1850 MHz to 1910 MHz bands.

The RF3166 is in volume production now and is priced at $1.95 in quantities of 10,000 units. The RF3158 is currently being sampled to customers and will ramp into volume production in the second quarter of calendar year 2005.

RF MicroDevices, Inc. +1-336-664-1233 www.rfmd.com