LNA Integrates Low Power Shutdown Function

Reported to be an industry first, the MAX2649 5-GHz, low-noise amplifier (LNA) integrates a low-power shutdown function to eliminate external components. The LNA draws less than 1 µA when activated and delivers a gain of 17 dB, a noise figure of 2.1 dB, and a 0 dBm input IP3 at 5.2-GHz while consuming just 12.5 mA. Designed using a proprietary low-noise, advanced silicon germanium (SiGe) process optimized for high-frequency applications, the new IC is suitable for use as a first- or second-stage LNA, an LO buffer, or a transmitter driver amplifier. Compared to discrete designs, the MAX2649 has an integrated active bias network that helps save one transistor and three passive components. Available in a 2 x 3 UCSP, chip-scale package measuring 1 mm x 1.5 mm, the LNA requires 11 mm2 of board space and has a starting price of $1.25 each/1,000. An assembled evaluation kit, the MAX2649EVKIT, is also available. MAXIM INTEGRATED PRODUCTS, Sunnyvale, CA. (800) 998-8800.