Analog semiconductor maker Skyworks Solutions Inc of Woburn, MA, USA says that MediaTek (a fabless semiconductor firm for wireless communications and digital multimedia) is using several Skyworks front-end solutions in its dual-core MT6572 platform.
MT6572 is the world's first dual-core, system-on-a-chip platform with high-speed-packet-access, integrated WiFi, FM, GPS and Bluetooth functionality delivered in a four-layer printed circuit board. MT6572 integrates a power-efficient, dual-core Cortex-A7 central processing unit sub-system with speeds up to 1.2GHz in 28nm. The new platform also integrates MediaTek's advanced, multimode Rel. 8 HSPA+/TD-SCDMA modem, 3G graphics, support up to HD 720p video playback and record, 5 megapixel camera and up to qHD displays.
The fully matched, 14-pad SKY77758 power amplifier (PA) module packs full coverage for Bands I, II, V, VIII into a single, compact 3.0mm x 4.2mm x 0.9mm package. The small and efficient surface mount module meets stringent spectral linearity requirements for WCDMA, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA+ transmission with high power-added efficiency. A directional coupler integrated into the module eliminates the need for any external coupler. The single gallium arsenide (GaAs), microwave monolithic integrated circuit (MMIC) contains all active circuitry in the module. The MMIC contains on-board bias circuitry, as well as input and interstage matching circuits. Output match into a 50-ohm load is realized off-chip within the module package to optimize efficiency and power performance.
The SKY77590-11, SKY77590-21, SKY77590-51, SKY77590-61, SKY77593, SKY77594, SKY77595 and SKY77596 are transmit (Tx)/receive front-end modules designed in a very low profile (0.9mm) and 6mm x 6mm compact form factor for quad-band cellular handsets comprising GSM850/900, DCS1800 and PCS 1900 operation. The complete transmit VCO-to-antenna and antenna-to-receive, surface acoustic wave filter modules consist of Tx harmonic filtering, a high linearity/low insertion loss switch, and a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor, PA control block. A custom Silicon integrated circuit contains decoder circuitry to control the RF switch while providing a low current, external control interface.
"MediaTek is excited to be extending its collaboration with Skyworks Solutions," said Jeffrey Ju, general manager of the MediaTek's smartphone business. "Skyworks is a proven innovator and their leading-edge, best-in-class solutions make them the ideal partner as we look to deliver next-generation smartphones with features and performance associated exclusively with high-end platforms."
Industry analysts expect future smartphone growth to come from emerging markets where consumers are upgrading from feature phones to entry-level platforms. According to IDC, 1.7bn smart connected devices (tablets, smartphones and PCs) will be shipped worldwide in 2014. Of those, 1bn will be delivered to emerging markets, with smartphones and tablets comprising more than the majority of units. IDC estimates emerging markets will see a compound annual growth rate of 17% from 2012–2017 for connected devices.
