Skyworks Solutions Inc of Woburn, MA, USA (which manufactures high-reliability analog and mixed-signal semiconductors) has introduced highly integrated front-end modules enabling 802.11ac connectivity in smartphones and tablets. IEEE 802.11ac technology allows consumers to download content substantially faster than equivalent 802.11n solutions and improve the wireless range. With download speeds of greater than a gigabit per second, these devices offer consumers the fastest, most reliable wireless coverage and help address the growing need for a more robust and efficient wireless network, says the firm.
SKY85302-11 is a complete 802.11 wireless local area network (WLAN), radio frequency (RF) front-end module (FEM) with a Bluetooth port. It provides all the functionality of a fully matched power amplifier (PA), power detector, harmonic filter, low-noise amplifier (LNA) and single-pole, triple-throw switch. This functionality provides a complete 2.4 gigahertz (GHz), 256 quadrature amplitude modulation WLAN RF solution from the output of the transceiver to the antenna, and from the antenna to the input of the transceiver. The LNA increases the receive (Rx) sensitivity of embedded solutions to improve range. SKY85302-11 also includes a transmit (Tx) power detector with 20 dB of dynamic range, and a digital enable control for Tx on/off control. The device is provided in an ultra compact, 16-pin, 2.5 x 2.5 x 0.45 millimeter (mm), quad-flat-no-lead package (QFN).
SKY85702-11 is a highly integrated, 5 GHz, 802.11ac FEM incorporating a single-pole, double throw (Tx/Rx) switch, and a PA intended for mobile 802.11ac applications and systems. It operates from a single supply voltage of 3.6V. An integrated power detector with 20 dB of dynamic range is included to provide closed-loop power control within the system. It is provided in a compact, 16-pin, 2.5 x 2.5 x 0.45 mm QFN package.
Both FEMs feature direct from battery operation, which removes the need for a low drop out regulator and associated components.
“Skyworks is gaining early momentum in meeting the demand for 802.11ac solutions, particularly in the high growth smartphone and tablet markets,” said Peter Gammel, vice president and general manager of mobile connectivity at Skyworks. “With several key reference design wins in place, we are pleased that our highly integrated products are delivering the exceptional performance our customers expect and in turn allowing consumers to enjoy some of the fastest download speeds across multiple mobile platforms.”
According to Skyworks, market analyst firm ABI Research says that all major smartphone makers are planning to include WiFi functionality in their platforms, with many carriers adding the standard for its ability to support large files for movies and songs. Currently 44% of smartphones have WiFi capability with the number expected to increase to 90% by 2014. ABI also forecast that the number of WiFi-enabled traditional mobile phones shipped would reach 520m units by 2014, up from 141m shipments in 2009.
