New Avago variable gain amplifier modules deliver best-in-class linearity for cellular base stations

SAN JOSE, USA & SINGAPORE: Avago Technologies, a leading supplier of analog interface components for communications, industrial and consumer applications, announced a high-linearity variable gain amplifier (VGA) module for base transceiver station (BTS) applications.

The new small-footprint ALM-81224 VGA module replaces existing discrete solutions, providing significant board space savings and shortening design cycle time. Operating in a broad frequency band from 1450 to 2750 MHz, the module addresses cellular BTS automatic gain control (AGC) and temperature compensation circuitry applications.

The ALM-81224 VGA module’s best-in-class linearity performance provides the ability to distinguish between wanted and spurious signals that are closely spaced. Available in a compact 6.0 by 6.0 by 1.0 mm package, the module offers low current consumption of 383 mA. The module’s input is fully-matched to 50 Ohms and output match can be tuned for optimal performance at a particular frequency band within the operation range, minimizing the need for external matching components and making the solution easy to use.

“With BTS manufacturers faced with the challenges of shortened design cycle time and board space constraints, our new VGA module addresses the need for an easy-to-use, compact solution that offers robust and reliable RF performance,” said James Wilson, director of marketing for wireless products at Avago.

The ALM-81224 module leverages the company’s proprietary 0.25 µm GaAs Enhancement-mode pHEMT process to achieve robust RF performance. It delivers high dynamic range of 38 dB under 0 to 3.3V control voltage. Using a single DC voltage input pin to achieve gain control, the module provides a high maximum gain of 23.8 dB typical.