Skyworks introduces scalable antenna switch solutions supporting LTE and CA at MWC

Skyworks Solutions Inc., an innovator of high performance analog semiconductors enabling a broad range of end markets, unveiled a set of antenna switch solutions supporting LTE, LTE-Advanced and next-generation carrier aggregation architectures. The portfolio includes highly integrated antenna switch modules (ASM) as well as transmit and receive diversity switches. The dual-mode MIPI® RFFE-compliant modules are modem agnostic, making them compatible with every leading chipset provider.

Carrier aggregation allows mobile service providers to combine spectrum and increase data rate throughput by utilizing two or more bands simultaneously instead of the single band method used currently, thereby providing consumers an enriched data experience regardless of location.

“With the addition of these high performance modules and analog control ICs, Skyworks now offers smartphone providers the broadest and most scalable solutions to meet demanding carrier aggregation requirements,” said David Stasey, vice president and general manager of analog solutions at Skyworks. “OEMs can quickly modify their RF front-ends and adapt to multiple band configurations, providing a high level of design flexibility to support differing regional band requirements.”

About Skyworks’ Antenna Switch Portfolio Supporting LTE, LTE Advanced and Carrier Aggregation

Designed specifically for carrier aggregation, the SKY13530(dual-pole-ten-throw), SKY13532(dual-pole-14-throw) and SKY13535(dual-pole-21-throw) ASM portfolio has independent programmable registers for low band and mid-high band switch banks, allowing for multiple carrier aggregation band combinations. This flexibility provides rapid regional customization for smartphone and modem manufacturers. In addition, the low band switch banks are optimized for improved harmonic suppression.

In conjunction with Skyworks’ carrier aggregation LTE portfolio, the company is releasing single output ASMs to support non-carrier aggregation implementations of the LTE rollout. The SKY13491-21(single-pole-fourteen-throw), SKY13492(single-pole-sixteen-throw), SKY13488(single-pole-twelve-throw) and SKY13498(single-pole-ten-throw) provide scalability in non-carrier aggregation SKUs.

Both carrier aggregation and non-carrier aggregation antenna switches feature an integrated dual mode MIPI® RFFE controller. Common truth tables and common footprint philosophy allow for system scalability and programming code reuse to expedite front-end modifications at Skyworks’ customer design center.