Date: 28/08/2009

CMOS transmit module for mobile handsets from Amalfi Semiconductor

Amalfi Semiconductor has released the AM7802, a new small CMOS-based transmit module for front-end cellular handsets.

The AM7802 packs a power amplifier, controller, transmit/receive switch, filtering and all matching components into a 30-mm2 package, to build small phones or phones with additional features. And it is a dual band GSM/GPRS transmit module targeted primarily at the entry and ultra low cost (ULC) market segments in emerging markets.

"The emerging market handset (EMH) market segment is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 9% between 2008 and 2012," said Brian Modoff, Senior Wireless Equipment Analyst at Deutsche Bank. "The availability of a proven CMOS technology that enables handset manufacturers to deliver superior performance and lower cost handset solutions with more efficient battery usage could drive CMOS to become the dominant technology in this market."

"The opportunity for Amalfi's superior power amplifier technology to make a global impact is real. Cellular handset manufacturers worldwide want CMOS to win because of its historic cost, integration and performance advantages, and they have shown us that it is an easy design transition from GaAs to CMOS," said Jim Finch, Co-founder and CEO of Amalfi Semiconductor. "Our CMOS transmit module has proven to significantly outperform all competitive solutions in power efficiency, size, and cost, which gives manufacturers the confidence they need to transition from GaAs to CMOS."

The AM7802 uses AdaptiveRF, for the development of CMOS power amplifiers, and its mid-range operating power levels applicable to GSM and EDGE cellular mobile handsets. And is capable of 1.5kV ESD on all pins, including RF pins, making the device less susceptible to ESD damage during manufacturing, with better yields and low cost.

The AM7802 can withstand 8kV ESD on the antenna port saving an external ESD protection device from using.

The AM7802 is capable of operation down to 2.7V, which enables handsets to operate longer and extract up to 10% additional talk time from today's current Lithium Ion battery technology.

In conjunction with the AM7802, Amalfi announces the Stratos AM8802 and AM8802D CMOS power amplifier (PA) modules with same core power amplifier with AdaptiveRF architecture.

Key features of the Stratos AM7802 transmit module and AM8802 and AM8802D power amplifier modules.
AM7802 AM8802 AM8802D
Module Dual Band TXM Quad Band PAM Dual Band PAM
Peak PAE (LB) 48% 58% 59%
Size (mm) 5 x 6 4 x 5 4 x 5
ESD (HBM) 1.5kV/8kV* 2kV 2kV


Availability:
AM7802: Now in samples
AM8802 and AM8802D: From mid-September 2009.
For more details visit www.amalfi.com.