SiGe wireless RF front-end solution effectively reduces Wi-Fi system size and reduces costs

JasonYoo

SiGe wireless RF front-end solution effectively reduces Wi-Fi system size and reduces costs [Copy link]

SiGe Semiconductor, Inc. announced the launch of the new wireless RF front-end module SE2559L . This module is designed for Wi-Fi systems that comply with the 802.11b/g standard, aiming to increase the integration of such systems and reduce costs. This RF front-end module is based on a highly integrated architecture and is about 60% smaller than other competing products. By highly integrating functions, the SE2559L eliminates several external components, allowing manufacturers to reduce the cost of the 802.11b/g functional bill of materials by about 15%. This small size and low cost make the SE2559L very suitable for access points, laptops, PC cards, and embedded Wi-Fi applications.

The SE2559L is the latest model in SiGe Semiconductor's RangeCharger product line, built on the company's proven award-winning architecture. The device integrates all the functionality required between the transceiver output and the antenna in a compact 4x5mm QFN package, which is about 60% smaller than similar modules and about 85% smaller than discrete solutions. Since the SE2559L does not require external matching and reference voltage, it can effectively reduce system costs and simplify the design, testing and manufacturing processes.

The SE2559L is a complete 802.11 b/g WLAN RF front-end module that integrates a power amplifier, negative slope power detector, T/R switch, diversity switch and its associated matching circuits. All components are matched to 50 ohm impedance, effectively simplifying PCB wiring and the interface to the transceiver IC. Its integrated power detector has a dynamic range of 20dB and has a digital control function for transmitter power ramp on/off control.

The SE2559L operates in 802.11g mode with a power output of +18dBm and an error vector magnitude (EVM) of 3%. In 802.11b mode, all adjacent channel power ratio (ACPR) requirements are met at an output power of +21dBm. In 802.11g mode, the SE2559L consumes only 142mA from a single 3.3V supply, which is approximately 25% less than existing solutions. Manufacturers can take advantage of this high power output and low current consumption to achieve performance goals and achieve the battery life required for portable Wi-Fi applications.

SE2559L is in production now, priced at $0.90 per piece in quantities of 100,000. In addition, SiGe Semiconductor also offers a similar product, SE2558L, with a positive slope power detector.