Low-Noise Amplifier Modules for BTS Applications

Avago Technologies has introduced a series of high-power switch low-noise amplifier (LNA) modules for use in the front-end receiver designs of TD-SCDMA and TD-LTE base transceiver stations (BTSs). The small-footprint ALM-12x24 modules replace existing three-piece discrete solutions, providing board space savings for BTS designs with eight transceiver channels in a single radio card. The fully matched solutions also shorten design cycle times by eliminating the need for tuning with external matching circuitry.

The modules are claimed to deliver excellent noise performance, high gain and high linearity from a compact package. The Avago ALM-12x24 LNA modules integrate a high-power 50W single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) switch, a first-stage LNA and a second-stage high-linearity amplifier in an 8 x 8mm package. Constructed with an Avago PIN diode, the SPDT switch prevents the LNA from damage by high-power signals potentially leaking over from the transmit chain in conditions where the antenna is mismatched. The LNA and the high-linearity amplifier leverage the company's proprietary 0.25um GaAs enhancement-mode pHEMT process to achieve robust radio-frequency (RF) performance.

Avago is currently exhibiting the modules, along with its complete RF and microwave portfolio, at the 2011 IEEE Microwave Theory and Techniques Society International Microwave Symposium in Booth 1602 at the Baltimore Convention Center. According to the company, the wireless infrastructure industry must provide optimum coverage with the best signal quality in a crowded spectrum. Receiver sensitivity is the most critical requirement in a BTS receiver's design, and LNA selection affects the receiver's performance. For front-end design architectures, low noise figure (NF) is a key design goal.

Another important design factor is linearity, which affects the receiver's ability to distinguish between wanted and spurious signals that are closely spaced. Output third-order intercept (OIP3) is used to specify linearity. The ALM-12124 module covers 1,880-2,025MHz with 0.80dB NF and 36.4dBm OIP3 typical performance at 1,900MHz in receiver mode, while the ALM-12224 module covers 2,300-2,400MHz with 0.99dB NF and 38.5dBm OIP3 typical performance at 2,400MHz in receiver mode.

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