Cost is a major factor driving the component choices for today’s communication systems. Low cost without sacrificing performance is key. One of the major device cost drivers has traditionally been component packaging. To help alleviate this expense, Mimix Broadband is introducing a Ku-band gallium arsenide (GaAs) power amplifier module (PAM) in a low cost 4 × 4 mm, plastic QFN surface-mount package.

Using GaAs pseudomorphic high electron mobility transistor (PHEMT) device model technology, the CMQ1432-QH PAM provides 33 dB of gain and delivers 32 dBm of saturated output power over a 13.5 to 15.5 GHz frequency range. The new low cost, ultra-compact PAM is lead-free, with 50 ? input and output terminals, and is designed to offer VSAT and multi-point radio system manufacturers significant cost savings with no degradation in performance or quality.

Product Description

The CMQ1432-QH plastic-packaged PHEMT PAM features a high efficiency peak power operation and an enhanced thermal design based on a comprehensive thermal analysis. It can supply 32 dBm of saturated power output and also features an analog bias current adjustment for low power efficiency enhancement. Its mean time between failures (MTBF) has been established for a 10-year lifetime. Table 1 lists its electrical specifications. Figures 1 and 2 show the CMQ1432-QH power amplifier module’s typical performance curves.

The new CMQ1432-QH PAM is unconditionally stable and its internal matching allows for a reduction in external components, thus offering a simple and low cost amplifier solution. Its RoHS compliance and on-chip ESD protection make it ideal in all manufacturing environments. The CMQ1432-QH PAM is intended for use as the final amplifier in extended Ku-band satellite applications.

Although the ultra-compact surface-mount QFN plastic package is considered nonhermetic, the package is regarded as a moisture sensitive level 1.

Engineering samples are currently available from stock and technical support is available from the company’s applications engineers with only a phone call. An evaluation board is also available. The CMQ1432-QH datasheet and additional product information may be obtained from the company’s web site.

Mimix Broadband Inc.,
Houston, TX (281) 988-4600,
www.mimixbroadband.com