Date: 02/03/2010

New amplifier chip to extend the range of wireless sensor networks

New chip from Texas Instruments to extend the RF range of wireless sensor networks operating in the frequency range of 850 to 950 MHz. This new chip CC1190 integrates a power amplifier (PA), a low-noise amplifier (LNA), switches and RF matching. This single chip solution doesn't require any additional discrete components. The typical applications suggested include wireless sensor networks, automatic meter reading (AMR), and wireless industrial controls, consumer and audio systems.

The CC1190 can work with another TI's IC CC1101, a sub-1 GHz transceiver chip and also with CC430 or CC1110 systems-on-chip from TI. The combined solution of CC1190 and CC1101 can boost the link budget to +149-dB. TI says designers can extend the RF range of wireless sensors without using wireless repeaters or routers to save the costs.

Other key specifications and features:

Up to 27-dBm (0.5 W) output power.
6-dB typical sensitivity improvement with CC11xx and CC430.

Package: 4-mm x 4-mm QFN-16 package
Availability: Now
Price: Each $2.10 in 1K pieces
Kit price: $99.00

For details visit www.ti.com