Renesas Introduces High-Frequency Power MOSFETs For Handheld Wireless Products

Renesas Technology America, Inc. introduced two new high-frequency power MOSFETs: the RQA0010 and RQA0014 transistors for use in the transmitter power amplifiers of handheld wireless products, including those that combine communication, information and multimedia capabilities. The company claims that the semiconductor devices achieve the industry’s highest efficiency class and the high reliability characterized by a rating of ESD immunity level 4.

In typical applications, the MOSFETs are used in tandem to amplify, to the nominal power level needed for driving the transmission antenna and audio signals that have converted to the high frequencies of the wireless network. They are suitable for frequencies in the 175 and 500MHz bands for commercial wireless systems, and in the 800 and 900MHz bands for cell phones.

Compared to previous-generation power MOSFETs, the RQA0010 and RQA0014 are said to have the greater efficiency and higher output at low-voltage operation that are essential for decreasing power consumption and thus extending battery life in portable wireless products. By using with a new fabrication process, Renesas has achieved a 60% power-added efficiency (PAE) in the RQA0010 MOSFET at 3.6V, and a 55% PAE in the RQA0014 MOSFET at the same supply voltage. As a result, a two-stage amplifier that uses an RQA0010 to boost the output of an RQA0014, is said to achieve the industry’s highest level of performance: a 1.2W output at 3.6V.

The high-frequency power MOSFETs have been subjected to ESD immunity testing that simulates the electrostatic discharges that could occur in actual use from a person or metal object, as required by the IEC61000-4-2 standard. The transistors have an internal structure that provides maximum protection in the areas of the chip where damage typically occurs. Careful design and fabrication have resulted in successful ESD immunity level 4 (14kV) testing, verifying MOSFET performance that promotes high reliability in wireless products, where contact with human bodies is a basic aspect of normal operation.

The package used for the RQA0010 and RQA0014 MOSFETs is the Renesas UPAK (Renesas package code) miniature package that measures only 4.5 x 2.5 x 1.5mm (max). It facilitates miniaturization and thinner form factors in compact handheld wireless products. The UPAK is a source-flange type package that combines electrical grounding with high thermal dissipation. It’s also environmentally friendly, being completely lead-free.

Sample pricing is $0.30 for the RQA0010 and $0.19 for the RQA0014.