News: Microelectronics
26 October 2021
Skyworks launches low-profile, multi-band massive IoT front-end module
Skyworks Solutions Inc of Irvine, CA, USA (which manufactures analog and mixed-signal semiconductors) has launched what it claims is the smallest multi-band RF front-end (RFFE) module for licensed, low-power wide-area network (LTE-M/NB-IoT) applications (including asset tracking, health and fitness wearables, smart metering and industrial monitoring).
Up to 20 frequency bands enable the same front-end module (FEM) and PCB design to be used anytime, anywhere, allowing global coverage. In particular, the SKY68031-11 module integrates the entire RF front end necessary for a cellular Internet of Things (IoT) radio operating in low-band 698-915MHz (5, 8, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28, 85) and mid-band 1695-1980MHz (1, 2, 3, 4, 25, 39, 66, 70) frequencies.
Specifically, the FEM monolithically integrates a broadband power amplifier (PA), transmit harmonic filters, antenna switch and MIPI RFFE controller, all in a compact 3mm x 3mm x 0.7mm, 24-pad package, enabling significant size reduction and usability in system-in-packages. With a supply voltage of 2.85-4.5V, up to six different bias conditions can be pre-defined and programmed through the MIPI interface to optimize PA performance and reduce current consumption. Output power is 23.5dBm.
