Avago Introduces GPS Low-Noise Amplifiers With Integrated Pre- And Post-High Rejection FBAR Filters

Avago Technologies recently introduced a new miniature compact highly integrated GPS low noise amplifier (LNA) that offers superior performance levels. Avago's ALM-1812 integrates a LNA and pre- and post high-rejection filters in a miniature compact package to provide a complete, compact and high-performance GPS RF front-end module that will help simplify the design of a wide range of GPS handset applications. Avago is a leading supplier of analog interface components for communications, industrial and consumer applications.

Avago's highly integrated ALM-1812 is designed for the 1.575 GHz frequency band and is housed in a miniature 4.5 by 2.2 by 1.0 mm MCOB package, reducing printed circuit board (PCB) space by more than 50 percent when compared to discreet-only solutions. The integration of FBAR filtering enables the ALM-1812 to reach more than 90 dBc of Cell/PCS-band rejection. Additionally, this GPS LNA effectively leverages Avago's 0.25 um GaAs enhancement-mode pHEMT process to deliver a 1.66 dB noise figure, 18.5 dB gain, and +2 dBm input third order intercept point (IIP3) at typical operating conditions of 2.7V and 6 mA.

Simultaneous GPS (S-GPS), and other location-based GPS services, require a high level of receiver sensitivity. Avago's ALM-1812 delivers a very low noise figure and high linearity which helps to significantly improve the sensitivity of GPS applications. Additionally, the integrated FBAR filter offers exceptional rejection at Cell/PCS-band frequencies and WiFi/Bluetooth, which makes it an ideal device to help improve the performance of GPS receivers for S-GPS operation in handsets. In addition, the ALM-1812 has a built-in shunt inductor at the RF input pin to enhance ESD production. By integrating a GPS LNA with pre- and post high-rejection film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR) filters, the high-performance ALM-1812 simplifies and shortens the RF design process, reduces component count and provides excellent RF performance levels that are critical in the use of GPS applications.

Features

• Very low noise figure: 1.66 dB typical
• FBAR filters provide exceptional Cell/PCS-band rejection to enhance GPS performance of S-GPS handsets
• Built-in shunt inductor enhances ESD protection
• Miniature package size helps reduce board space and the number of components required
• Advanced GaAs E-pHEMT and FBAR technology
• Halogen free
• Pb-Free and RoHS compliant

About Avago Technologies

Avago Technologies is a leading supplier of analog interface components for communications, industrial and consumer applications. By leveraging its core competencies in III-V compound and silicon semiconductor design and processing, the company provides an extensive range of analog, mixed signal and optoelectronics components and subsystems to approximately 40,000 end customers. Backed by strong customer service support, the company's products serve four diverse end markets: wireless communications, wired infrastructure, industrial and automotive electronics, and consumer and computing peripherals. Avago has a global employee presence and heritage of technical innovation dating back 40 years to its Hewlett-Packard roots. For more information, visit www.avagotech.com

SOURCE: Avago Technologies