Microwave Journal
www.microwavejournal.com/articles/21885-richardson-rfpd-introduces-addition-to-family-of-high-frequency-high-power-7-bit-digital-step-attenuators-from-peregrine

Richardson RFPD introduces addition to family of high frequency, high power, 7-bit digital step attenuators from Peregrine

March 24, 2014

Richardson RFPD Inc. announces immediate availability and full design support capabilities for a new high frequency, high power, 7-bit digital step attenuator (DSA) from Peregrine Semiconductor Corp. (Peregrine).

The PE43705 is the latest addition to this family of DSAs from Peregrine. An integrated digital control interface supports both serial and parallel programming of the attenuation, including the capability to program an initial attenuation state at power-up. Covering a 31.75 dB attenuation range in 0.25 dB, 0.50 dB, or 1 dB steps, it maintains a monotonic step response from 50 MHz through 8 GHz. The PE43705 also features safe attenuation state transitions and is offered in a 32-lead 5x5 mm QFN package. In addition, no external blocking capacitors are required if 0V DC is present on the RF ports.

The new DSA is designed for use in 3G and 4G wireless infrastructure and other high performance RF applications.

Additional key features of the PE43705 include:

  • Attenuation options: covers a 31.75 dB range in 0.25 dB, 0.5 dB, or 1.0 dB steps
    • 0.25 dB monotonicity for ≤6 GHz
    • 0.50 dB monotonicity for ≤7 GHz
    • 1.00 dB monotonicity for ≤8 GHz
  • High power handling @ 8 GHz in 50Ω
    • +31 dBm, pulsed
    • +28 dBm, continuous wave
  • High linearity: IIP3 of +65 dBm
  • Safe attenuation state transitions
  • 1.8V control logic compatible
  • 105ºC operating temperature 
  • Programming modes: direct parallel, latched parallel, serial, serial addressable
  • High-attenuation state @ power-up (PUP)
  • ESD performance: 1.5kV HBM on all pins
  • Package: 32-lead 5x5 mm QFN

The PE43705 is manufactured on Peregrine’s UltraCMOS® process, a patented variation of silicon-on-insulator (SOI) technology on a sapphire substrate, offering the performance of GaAs with the economy and integration of conventional CMOS. Peregrine’s HaRP™ technology enhancements provide for new RF architectures and unmatched linearity in RF front end solutions.

Richardson RFPD's design advisors provide extensive technical expertise and design-in assistance for Peregrine products, including the PE43705 DSA. To find more information, or to order the device today, please visit the PE43705 webpage.The device is also available by calling 1-800-737-6937 (within North America); or please find your local sales engineer (worldwide) at Local Sales Support. To learn about additional products from Peregrine, please visit the Peregrine storefront webpage.