Avago Launches Miniature WiFi and WiMAX Linear Amplifier Modules

The MGA-2xx03 series consists of three high gain, fully matched (with no external matching components) PA modules that are cost effective, provide high efficiency over a broad frequency bandwidth and meet industry-standard Spectral Emission Mask (SEM) tests operating at 3.3V. These features allow designers to achieve standards-compliant performance in space constrained designs with low current and help reduce time to market in designing fixed or portable WiMAX or WiFi devices used in laptop computers, dongles and wireless access points. Avago’s MGA-2xx03 linear amplifier modules cover frequency ranges of 2.3 to 2.7GHz (MGA-22003), 3.1 to 3.8GHz (MGA-23003), and 5.1 to 5.9GHz (MGA-25203).

The high gain, low current use, and high linear power over a broad frequency range of Avago’s 2xx03 series gives industry designers the option to use a single part to cover the entire band of interest. Previously, multiple narrow band parts were required to achieve performance goals. These fully matched PA modules are designed with a biasing circuit that accounts for manufacturing variation, allowing designers to plan less added system margin, which can reduce costs.

Designed using Avago’s proprietary GaAs enhancement-mode pHEMT technology, the MGA-2xx03 series can be used for most high linearity applications. Moreover, they provide superior performance across a range of voltage and temperature levels. These PA modules exhibit flat gain and good matching while providing linear power efficiency to meet stringent mask conditions.

Avago’s MGA-22003 and MGA-23003 are part of a complete RF front end solution for WiMAX applications. These two parts can be paired with a new Avago Single-Pole Four-Throw (SP4T) switch detector module to include all the front end RF functionality. The MGA-22003 meets the WiMAX forum 802.16 mask at over 25 dBm power, and the MGA-23003 meets the ETSI 802.16 mask at over 25 dBm power. Both have high gain greater than 34 dB across the bands. Additionally, a low power mode allows operation at approximately 100 mA when only low power is required. The MGA-25203 generates a full 23 dBm power at -34 dB EVM with 30 dB gain at 5.4 GHz.