Front-end modules

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.