RFPAL significantly improves base station system efficiency

The SC2200 application, which occupies less than 1 square inch of board space, substantially increases power amplifier efficiency while consuming less than 1.5W when both paths are fully operational. This allows manufacturers to realise significant competitive advantages and helps operators meet their requirements for lowered operating and deployment costs.

With cellular data traffic increasing exponentially, the communications industry is migrating from voice-centric macro networks to heterogeneous networks with improved coverage and capacity. The SC2200 is a superior alternative to the inefficient method of operating power amplifiers in back-off and is preferred over DPD since it requires no software or complex algorithm development. It features an integrated pre-amp and a single 1.8V supply and works optimally for a wide range of power amplifier architectures, technologies and power levels. The lineariser is suitable for 2G, 3G and 4G systems, including TD-LTE and FD-LTE. It is suited for cellular infrastructure applications such as macro and small cell base stations, DAS, AAS, remote radio heads and other MIMO systems.

Elina Todorov, Business Manager, Maxim Integrated, commented: “The SC2200, based on field-proven RFPAL technology that has been deployed in millions of base stations, is already being used in early stage 5G systems utilising massive MIMO antenna arrays. The SC2200 provides higher integration and functionality over previous-gens, enabling base station vendors to substantially reduce system costs."

The SC2200 is available in an 11x11mm SAWN QFN package and specified over the -40 to +100°C temperature range. The SC2200-EVK900, SC2200-EVK1900 and SC2200-EVK2400 evaluation kits are also available. Contact Maxim for pricing.