Front-end modules

News

SiGe Semiconductor has expanded its RangeCharger product line with a trio of RF front-end modules that target Wi-Fi applications.

The SE2521A40, SE2521A60, and SE2521A80 RF front-end modules each provide a complete interface between the output of a transceiver and the antenna, thereby easing design and manufacture, and reducing both the bill of materials and overall system cost. All the new modules are pin-to-pin compatible with the SE2521A34, SiGe’s previous 802.11g RF front-end module.

Each device incorporates a linear power amplifier, power detector, transmit-receive switch, and associated matching circuitry in a small package measuring just 8mm x 7mm x 1.1mm.

The SE2521A40 is suitable for embedded WLAN systems, capable of +18dBm output power with an error vector magnitude (EVM) of less than three percent while operating in 802.11g mode, or +22dBm in 802.11b mode while meeting all ACPR requirements. The front-end module achieves this performance while minimizing current consumption to 150 mA in 802.11g mode. This allows VoIP capability to be added to mobile phones without impacting battery life.

The SE2521A60 targets the PC Card market. It is capable of +19dBm output power with an EVM of less than three percent while operating in 802.11g mode, or +23dBm in 802.11b mode while meeting all ACPR requirements. The SE2521A60 consumes just 195mA in 802.11g mode.

The SE2521A80 is optimized for routers and access points, featuring high output power of +20dBm with an EVM of less than three percent while operating in 802.11g mode, or +20dBm in 802.11b mode while meeting all ACPR requirements. The high output power boosts signal strength for reliable transmission over longer distances.

Each device also integrates a power detector with 20dB of dynamic range, and a digital enable control for transmitter on/off control. The power detector boosts performance by minimizing mismatch to only 1.5 dB of variation over a 2:1 antenna mismatch.

All three devices are sampling now, with production scheduled for Q3 2005. In 10k units quantities, the SE2521A40, SE2521A60, and SE2521A80 are each priced at approximately $1.95.