Ericsson Microelectronics AB (Sweden) announced its new quad-band, RF power amplifier module, the PBA31603, which can be used in the development of quad-band GSM phones. It is suitable for dual-, triple- or quad-band GSM handsets.
The PBA31603 consists of two amplifiers on the same chip: one for the GSM850/900 and the other for the DCS1800/PCS1900. The single-ended design features a minimum external component count and efficient operation from a single +3.5V power supply. Output power is +31.5dBm for the GSM850, +35dBm for the GSM900, +32.5dBm for the DCS1800 and +32.5dBm for the PCS1900. Power-added efficiency in each band is 40, 55, 50 and 45 percent, respectively. Internal components match the ac-coupled inputs and outputs to 50 Ohms. Up to 50 percent of the duty cycle can be achieved without performance degradation. High efficiency and less than 10µA of current consumption in the power-down mode ensures long battery life. An analog ramp signal controls power output and a logic input is used for band switching.
The PBA31603 is based around a single SiGe chip, which is a low-cost and robust technology suitable for high-volume production. It is packaged in a compact 10mm x 8mm x 1.5mm module. Samples are available from stock.
