24 February 2014

Skyworks launches second-generation SkyOne front-ends supporting carrier aggregation and more frequency bands

At the 2014 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain (24–27 February), analog semiconductor maker Skyworks Solutions Inc of Woburn, MA, USA has unveiled its second-generation SkyOne platforms.

Launched in mid-2012, SkyOne is a family of fully optimized, scalable devices that integrate all of the high-performance RF and analog content between the transceiver and antenna into what is claimed to be the industry’s smallest footprint. The devices also provide what is claimed to be the world’s best linearity and power-added efficiency for smart RF integration. The newest front-ends cover more frequency bands, integrate up to seven duplexers, support carrier aggregation and provide standardized inputs for all leading chipsets that are MIPI RFFE compatible.

“Skyworks is pushing the integration envelope and meeting demands for smartphones, tablets and datacards requiring wider bandwidths being enabled by carrier aggregation,” says Joel King, VP & general manager of advanced market solutions. “By utilizing our SkyOne solutions, mobile device OEMs no longer have to choose between size and time-to-market,” he adds. “These devices deliver best-in-class performance, are highly customizable and scalable as well as compatible with all leading chipsets.”

Skyworks has incorporated RF switching technology in its newest devices that are enabling early adopters to implement carrier aggregation solutions. Carrier aggregation allows mobile service providers to combine spectrum and increase data rate throughput by using two or more bands simultaneously instead of the single-band method used currently, giving consumers an enriched data experience regardless of location.

SkyOne devices also support standardized inputs to industry-leading basebands (MIPI RFFE compatible) and address both transmit (Tx) and receive (Rx) switching paths. Skyworks’ carrier aggregation switching solutions, which are compliant to tier-one, carrier-driven specifications, are based on silicon-on-insulator (SOI) wafer process technologies and available in many different configurations.

SkyOne is an 8mm x 9mm x 0.95mm module with up to seven duplexers and a dual-pole, 19-throw antenna switch module (ASM) for models supporting carrier aggregation (CA) and single-pole, 16-throw ASMs for models without a CA requirement.

The SKY78021 is a hybrid, multi-mode, multiband (MMMB) front-end module (FEM) that supports 2.5G, 3G/4G and CDMA handsets and all standard carrier aggregation frequency band combinations through its integrated dual-pole 19 throw switch. The module operates efficiently in EDGE, GPRS, GSM, HSPA, LTE and WCDMA modes.

The SKY78022, SKY78025 and SKY78026 are MMMB FEMs supporting 2.5G, 3G/4G, CDMA and TDD-LTE handsets and operate efficiently in EDGE, GPRS, GSM, HSPA, LTE, TDD-LTE and WCDMA modes. These modules integrate single-pole, 16-throw switches with internal IEC protection.

See related items:

Skyworks launches front-end incorporating all popular 2G, 3G and 4G bands plus switches and filters

Tags: Skyworks FEM

Visit: www.skyworksinc.com