Avago Technologies - First GPS Front-End Modules that Integrates an FBAR Pre-Filter with a Low Noise Amplifier

Avago’s ALM-1912 is designed for use in mobile handsets, personal navigation devices (PND) and other GPS-enabled applications. This GPS front-end module is housed in a miniature 2.9 by 2.0 by 1.0 mm MCOB package to minimize the amount of printed circuit board space required and is ideal for use in space constrained applications. The integration of FBAR pre-filtering in the ALM-1912 enables the module to provide exceptional rejection at Cell, PCS, and WiFi/Bluetooth frequencies. Additionally, this GPS front-end module effectively leverages Avago’s 0.25 µm GaAs enhancement-mode pHEMT process to deliver a 1.62 dB noise figure, 19.3 dB gain, and +1.5 dBm input third order intercept point (IIP3) and more than 50 dBc of out of band rejection 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-1912 delivers a very low noise figure and high linearity which helps to significantly improve the sensitivity of GPS handset applications. A CMOS-compatible shutdown pin is included for turning the LNA on/off or for current adjustment. The integrated pre-filter utilizes Avago’s leading-edge proprietary FBAR filtering technologies to provide exceptional rejection at Cell/PCS-band, and WiFi/Bluetooth frequencies making it an ideal solution to help enhance the performance of GPS receivers for S-GPS operation in handsets and other mobile devices.

The ALM-1912 has a built-in shunt inductor at the RF input pin to enhance ESD production, which allows the device to survive more than 3kV of Human Body Model (HBM) ESD charge at the RF input pin. By integrating a GPS LNA with pre- and post high-rejection FBAR filters, the high-performance ALM-1912 simplifies and shortens the RF design process, reduces component count, and provides excellent RF performance levels that are critical in GPS applications.