CML sub-GHz band GaAs 2W linear power amplifier

24th September 2024

Harry Fowle

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CML Micro has extended its SµRF range of sub-GHz MMICs with a 2W power amplifier optimised for linear performance and high reliability.

The CMX90A006 is intended as a final-stage ISM (915 MHz) and SRD (868 MHz) band power amplifier in wireless transmitter applications.

The packaged two-stage indium gallium phosphide (InGaP) device delivers +33 dBm output power at 1 dB gain compression over the 860 to 930 MHz frequency range, making it suitable for multi-market applications operating in the license-free bands. The CMX90A006 operates over a wide 2.5 to 5.25 V supply voltage to enable system-level optimisation and can be powered by a single-cell Lithium battery for portable applications.

The power amplifier is fabricated using an advanced InGaP HBT process technology to provide excellent reliability and optimum efficiency, gain and linearity performance. The device attains 52% PAE, 33 dB of small signal gain and +42 dBm output third order intercept (OIP3) at 26 dBm per tone.

The CMX90A006 is housed in a 4x4 mm thermally enhanced Very-thin-profile Quad Flat No-lead (VQFN) package to integrate into space-constrained designs easily. The RF input port of the device is internally matched to 50 Ω to reduce component count. Engineers can use the EV90A006 evaluation board which contains the output matching network to optimise performance for their application.

"The CMX90A006 represents a significant advancement in our sub-GHz SµRF range, offering engineers a power amplifier that not only delivers robust linear performance but also ensures high reliability for critical ISM band applications,” says Arwyn Roberts, RF Product Manager at CML Micro. “Advanced sampling to key customers has demonstrated its ability to operate across a wide voltage range and deliver high efficiency, making it an ideal choice for the latest UHF RFID readers and smart metering technologies, as well as a host of other battery-operated IoT wireless devices operating in the license-free UHF band.”

The CMX90A006 is provided with a comprehensive data sheet, and CML Micro offers full support through its global sales and applications teams. The product and evaluation board will be available through global distribution partners, including DigiKey, Mouser and RFMW.