Date: 28/05/2012

6-bit digital wideband VGAs from NXP with flexible current settings

NXP Semiconductors N.V. has introduced two 6-bit digital variable gain amplifiers (VGAs), the BGA7204 and BGA7210. They offer low noise, good linearity, and low power consumption across a wide frequency band.

NXP claims that the BGA7210 is the only device of its kind capable of working as a VGA up to 4 GHz without external matching. Both VGAs feature NXP's smart routing lead design, which simplifies PCB placement and reduces the footprint of the device.

These devices are primarily suited for the use in wireless infrastructure equipments. These new VGAs from NXP ensure that the incoming signal is always at optimum strength by compensating for any degradation caused by changes in temperature. By controlling the power level to the power amplifier, the VGAs also help compensate for variations in cell load and the presence of aging infrastructure equipment.

The BGA7210 adds flexible current distribution across its two amplifiers, depending on the attenuation state, to save power.

"These are state-of-the-art, industry-leading VGAs that combine low power consumption with signal support across a very wide frequency band, right up to 4 GHz," said Kees Schetters, director of marketing, wireless infrastructure, NXP Semiconductors. "By enabling easier signal routing connections, reducing footprint, and supporting platforms with multiple frequency ranges, we're offering an extremely flexible solution that gives our customers a significant competitive advantage in their infrastructure designs."

Key features:

1. Frequency band
a. BGA7204: 400 MHz to 2.8 GHz
b. BGA7210: 700 MHz to 3.8 GHz

2. High output power P1dB
a. BGA7204 = 21 dBm
b. BGA7210 = 21 dBm (23 dBm @ 2.2-2.8 GHz)

3. High output third-order intercept, IP3O
a. BGA7204 = 38 dBm
b. BGA7210 = 39 dBm (35 dBm @ 2.2-2.8 GHz)

4. Fast switching power-save mode (power down pin)
5. Attenuation range: 31.5 dB, 0.5 dB step size (6 bit)

The BGA7204 and BGA7210 are currently in mass production. Indicative pricing for 1,500 units is $3.30 USD per piece for the BGA7204, and $4.05 USD per piece for the BGA7210.
More BGA7210 product information at http://www.nxp.com/pip/BGA7210
More BGA7204 product information at http://www.nxp.com/pip/BGA7204