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5 November 2009

 

Avago adds high-gain LNA with variable current and shutdown for GPS, ISM and WiMAX

Avago Technologies of San Jose, CA, USA has added to its family of low-noise amplifiers with a new high-gain LNA with variable current and shutdown functions for GPS, unlicensed industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) bands, and WiMAX applications in the 0.9–3.5GHz frequency range.

The MGA-231T6 uses Avago’s proprietary GaAs enhancement-mode pHEMT process to achieve high gain (17.1dB typical) with a very low noise figure (1dB typical) combined with high linearity (high IIP3 and IP1dB) to help to improve the sensitivity of GPS receivers. The LNA targets designers of mobile handsets with GPS functions, recreational and navigation GPS receivers, and antennas.

In addition, the noise figure distribution is tightly controlled, and a CMOS-compatible shutdown pin is included for turning the LNA on or off or for current adjustment (via a single external resistor/voltage). Shutdown current is less than 0.4µA.

Housed in a compact 2.0mm by 1.3mm by 0.4mm package, the MGA-231T6 only requires 4-5 external matching components to help reduce the amount of printed circuit board space and the number of components needed. Designers can hence develop next-generation GPS applications that are more compact, with more features and functions to satisfy the growing needs of consumers.

The firm says that the low noise figure and high gain, coupled with low current consumption, suit use with supplies down to 1.8V in critical low-power GPS applications or during low battery situations.

The MGA-231T6 is priced at $0.55 each in 1000 piece quantities.

Search: Avago High-gain LNA GaAs pHEMT

Visit: www.avagotech.com