Skyworks Solutions front-end modules (FEMs) are being leveraged by Broadcom Corporation for use in several of the company’s 5G WiFi solutions, enabling some of the fastest download speeds available in access points, routers, DSL/cable gateways, PCs, smartphones and tablets. Skyworks’ complete 2.4 and 5 gigahertz (GHz) 802.11a/g/n/ac solutions integrate the power amplifier, filter, power detector, transmit/receive (T/R) switch, diplexer and associated matching in an ultra-compact form factor, delivering all the essential functionality from the output of the SOC to the antenna.
By next year, 802.11ac is expected to be the dominant standard and its reach is expected to go well beyond just smartphones, tablets and computers. According to a study by Strategy Analytics, sales of consumer devices compatible with 802.11ac, including routers and gateways, will grow and surpass one billion units by the end of 2015 and 2.8 billion in 2017. The 802.11ac deployment will initially involve smartphones and tablets with connected televisions, media players and other devices to follow.
About Skyworks’ Mobile Connectivity Solutions
Designed to meet stringent linearity conditions of 802.11ac standard, the SE5516A delivers < 2 percent error vector magnitude at rated AC power. All RF ports are matched to 50 O to simplify printed circuit board layout and the interface to the transceiver RFIC. The device also includes a transmitter power detector with 20 dB of dynamic range for each transmit chain. Each power amplifier (PA) has a separate digital enable control for transmitter on/off control. The power ramp rise/fall time is less than 0.4 µsec. It also provides a notch filter from 3.260 – 3.267 GHz prior to the input of each 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz PAs, respectively. The solution is housed in a 4 x 4 x 1 millimeter (mm), halogen and lead free, restriction of hazardous substances compliant, moisture sensitivity level, 3 land grid array package.
The SKY85302-11 is a complete 802.11ac WLAN RF FEM with a Bluetooth® port. The device provides all of the functionality of a fully matched PA, power detector, harmonic filter, low-noise amplifier (LNA) and single-pole, triple-throw switch. The FEM also provides a complete 2.4 GHz solution from the output of the transceiver to the antenna, and from the antenna to the input of the transceiver. The LNA increases the receive sensitivity of embedded solutions to improve range or to overcome the insertion loss of cellular filters, often included for mobile applications. In addition, the device includes a transmitter power detector with 20 dB of dynamic range, and a digital-enable control for transmitter power ramp on/off control. The FEM is also provided in an ultra-compact, 16-pin, 2.5 x 2.5 mm, quad-flat, no-lead (QFN) package.
The SKY85706-11 is a highly integrated, 5 GHz FEM incorporating a single-pole, double throw T/R switch, an LNA with bypass, and a PA intended for mobile/portable, 802.11n/ac applications and systems. An enable/disable function is included, allowing power savings during off mode. In addition, an integrated power detector with 20 dB of dynamic range is included to provide closed-loop power control within the system. The FEM is also provided in a compact, 16-pin, 2.5 x 2.5 QFN package.
