RFMD introduces FEM for smart metering/smart energy and ISM band apps

RF Micro Devices Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance radio frequency components and compound semiconductor technologies, announced the availability of the RFFM6903 front end module (FEM). RFMD's highly-integrated RFFM6903 FEM meets or exceeds the system requirements for AMI/AMR smart meter applications operating in the 868MHz — 960 MHz frequency band. The FEM supports multiple applications, including Smart Energy/advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), portable battery-powered equipment, and general 868/915MHz ISM band systems.

The feature-rich RFFM6903 integrates a +30.5 dBm power amplifier (PA) with a Tx harmonic output filter in the transmit path, a Tx path bypass mode with harmonic filter, and a low-noise amplifier (LNA) with bypass mode in the receive path and is packaged in a 6 x 6 x 1 mm laminate package. The RFMD® RFFM6903 also includes a low insertion loss, high isolation, single-pole three-throw (SP3T) switch and separate Rx/Tx 50 ohm ports that simplify matching and provide input and output signals for both the Tx and Rx paths. In the receive path, the Rx chain provides 16dB of typical gain with only 5mA of current and an excellent noise figure of 1.7 dB.

Rohan Houlden, general manager of RFMD's Wireless Connectivity business unit, said, "The RFFM6903 is ideal for advanced metering systems requiring high efficiency and minimum output power of 1 Watt. The high level of integration and industry-leading form factor minimize the footprint and reduce the number of discrete components and manufacturing assembly costs. The fully-integrated front end module design approach shortens customer design time and accelerates time-to-market, while delivering industry leading product performance."

RFMD is showcasing a broad portfolio of industry-leading RF components at the Electronica 2012 trade show in Munich, Germany, November 13-16, Stand #A4.134. Datasheets can be obtained via RFMD's website at www.rfmd.com or by contacting RFMD at 336-664-1233.