10 September 2012

GigOptix releases PAs for high capacity E-Band radios

GigOptix Inc of San Jose, CA, USA (a fabless supplier of analog semiconductor and optical components enabling high-speed end-to-end information streaming over optical fiber and wireless networks) has released engineering samples of its new generation power amplifiers (PAs) covering the 71 to 76 GHz and 81 to 86 GHz frequencies for high capacity E-Band radios.

The GaAs pHEMT MMIC PAs, EXP7602 and EXP7603, provide gain of 16dB and 20dB respectively across the 71 to 76 GHz band. The EXP7602 delivers a P1dB above 23dBm with saturated output power above 25dBm. EXP7603 delivers a P1dB above 25dBm with saturated output power above 26dBm. The GaAs pHEMT MMIC PA EXP8602 provides gain of 18dB across the 81-86 GHz band and delivers a P1dB above 20dBm with saturated output power above 23dBm.

All three PAs feature on chip temperature compensated output power detector to simplify system assembly and increase power efficiency, says the firm. These PAs feature RF inputs and outputs that are internally matched to 50 Ohms and require no external matching components. The devices typically dissipate 2.2W during operation.

"These new powerful amplifiers represent a major improvement for our customers," said Andrea Betti-Berutto, chief technology officer of GigOptix. "The devices feature high gain and high output power levels with excellent return losses. The availability of on chip output power detector will enable customers to meet the challenging E-Band radio specification whilst simplifying their integration. The new devices enable E-band radios to transmit more data, more efficiently over a longer distance and at a more competitive price to what is currently available in the market. We expect our new power amplifier solutions to be a significant contributor to our future growth in the E-band market."

In a recent report on point-to-point radio links from EJL Wireless Research, E-band was forecast as being one of the fastest growing segments in the wireless mobile backhaul market, with greater than 100% Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) to 2016.

Tags: GigOptix

Visit: www.gigoptix.com