Microchip Announces New 5 GHz 50 ohm Matched WLAN Front End Module For IEEE 802.11a/n/ac Applications

High-Efficiency and Compact SST11LF04 Provides Ultra High-Data-Rate for Mobile Device, Multi-Channel Access Point/Routers and Set-Top Box Equipment

Microchip Technology Inc., a leading provider of microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog and Flash-IP solutions, recently announced its new 5 GHz, 50 ohm Matched WLAN Front End Module (FEM)—the SST11LF04—for high data rate mobile device applications. The SST11LF04 features a transmitter power amplifier, a receiver low-noise amplifier with bypass and a low-loss, single-pole two-throw antenna switch for 5 GHz WLAN connectivity into one integrated, compact 2.5x2.5x0.4 mm, 16-pin QFN package, making it ideal for high-data-rate mobile device applications. With its small footprint, high linear output power of up to 16 dBm and 17 dBm, at 3.3V and 5V Vcc respectively—for 1.75% dynamic EVM using MCS9-HT80 modulation and 80 MHz bandwidth along with 18 dBm and 19 dBm linear power for 3% EVM at 3.3V and 5V, respectively—the SST11LF04 extends the range of IEEE 802.11a WLAN system while providing exceptional transmit power at the maximum 11ac high-data–rate modulation.  The receiver has a 12 dB gain and a greater than -6 dBm input (1 dB) compression level.  In LNA bypass mode, the receiver has a 2.5 dB noise figure and an -6 dBm input compression level.

This new 5 GHz 50 ohm matched FEM enables designers to create highly-efficient designs with smaller board size requirements, which reduces time to market.  Its high linear power enables 802.11a/n/ac operation and increases data rates, while its small size is ideal for space-constrained applications including mobile devices, multi-channel access point/routers and set-top boxes.

“Microchip’s RF power amplifiers have a strong stand in the WLAN market by offering reliable power amplifiers with high power added efficiencies at both 2.4 and 5 GHz,” said Daniel Chow, vice president of Microchip’s RF Division. “With the release of the SST11LF04, Microchip now provides a compact front end module with the same reliable operation. By providing high- efficiency operation and low dynamic EVM over temperature and low receiver noise figure, this new FEM can extend the range of a 5 GHz ultra high data rate 802.11ac system in mobile devices, multi-channel access point/routers and set-top box equipment.”

Development Support
Evaluation boards for the new SST11LF04 front-end module are available through Microchip’s sales representatives.

Pricing & Availability
The SST11LF04 is available today for sampling and volume production, in a 2.5x2.5x0.4 mm, 16-pin QFN package.  Pricing is $0.80 each, in 10,000-unit quantities.

About Microchip Technology
Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog and Flash-IP solutions, providing low-risk product development, lower total system cost and faster time to market for thousands of diverse customer applications worldwide. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit http://www.microchip.com/get/C87E.