Multi-purpose power amplifiers

Atmel has released the T0905 and ATR0906 multi-purpose power amplifiers (PAs) for applications requiring frequencies of 135-600 MHz and 500-1000 MHz respectively. Using Silicon-Germanium (SiGe) technology for maximum performance, the devices address many dedicated communication systems such as professional radios (military, police, security etc), maritime radio, ISM-band applications and pre-amplifiers in wireless infrastructure systems.

These amplifiers cover an extremely broad frequency range, but still provide maximum performance and efficiency. The open architecture provides system designers with the flexibility to adapt the PAs to the needs of each specific application. This means that the devices can be used either in non-linear (saturated) or in linear mode, and can be operated gain-controlled or with fixed gain, amongst other options.

Minimal passive components are needed to realise the individual matching that enables such a wide operating frequency range. The power gain can be set dynamically up to 32 dB and the complete dynamic range can be set dynamically up to 60 dB. This allows the PA to quickly adapt and output power and thus save current and avoid excess emission. During continuous wave mode, the output power is up to 35 dBm, while the efficiency is as high as 55%.