3G transmit system

RF Micro Devices has announced the RF6280 3G transmit system, a flexible 3G multimode solution designed to simplify and accelerate implementation of multi-band and multimode 3G handsets and mobile device platforms.

The device supports all major WCDMA frequency bands and comprises a front end power management IC optimised for use with either one or both of two available power amplifier options: the RF6281 and/or the RF6285.

The RF6281 is a dedicated single-band power amplifier module (supporting Band I) and the RF6285 is a flexible dual-path, multi-band power amplifier module (capable of supporting bands I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VIII, IX).

The centrepiece of the 3G transmit system is the RF6280 front end power management IC that combines a low-noise, high-efficiency DC-DC converter with embedded hardware control algorithms to enable enhanced performance and improved ease of use.

The device uses analog bias control and DC-DC conversion to intelligently and dynamically control PA operating conditions. Enabling mode-optimised PA efficiency and linearity performance, the RF6280 also ensures efficiency across all power levels, data rates (voice-only to HSPA) and non-ideal load conditions. This helps extend battery life and reduces average thermal dissipation.