A new line of low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) for applications through 6 GHz is now available, courtesy of a new supplier that goes by the unlikely name of Guerilla RF. The firm has introduced a pair of LNAs for mainly wireless communications applications through 3.8 GHz.
Model GRF2051 maintains low noise figure with reasonable gain from 1700 to 2700 MHz, while the higher-frequency model GRF2052 can be tuned for use from 2300 to 2700 MHz or from 3300 to 3800 MHz (via separate tuning). The amplifiers, which are suitable for use with small cellular-communications base stations and distributed antenna systems, are supplied in 12-pin plastic QFN packages measuring 2.0 × 2.0 × 0.5 mm.
Model GRF2051 is a single-stage LNA that can serve as the first-stage amplifier in sensitive wireless receivers. It has been characterized within the firm’s evaluation board and achieves 19-dB gain and 0.35-dB noise figure within the board at 1900 MHz. When measurements are de-embedded from the evaluation board, the noise figure is reported as a mere 0.25 dB at 1900 MHz. At that same test frequency, the LNA achieves +20-dBm output power at 1-dB compression and output third-order intercept point of +39 dBm. The input and output return losses are typically 12 dB.
This compact LNA operates over a supply (drain) voltage range of 0 to +9 VDC, drawing typical supply current of 55 mA at +5 VDC; the amplifier is rated for maximum power dissipation of 500 mW. It is designed for an operating temperature range of -40 to +105°C. The amplifier is capable of handling fast-switching applications and is rated for 300-ns switching rise and fall time. The typical current draw is 55 mA at +5 VDC. Performance information is still preliminary for this model at higher-frequency applications; nevertheless, the GRF2052 LNA can be used from 2300 to 2700 MHz or 3300 to 3800 MHz with separate tuning.
Of the new amplifiers, Alan Ake, vice president of applications and technical marketing at Guerrilla RF, notes: “We are excited to help our wireless infrastructure customers obtain maximum receiver sensitivity and improve receiver dynamic range with minimal external components, which ultimately yields a simple and low-cost application circuit that allows for optimal efficiency and reuse.”
Guerilla RF, Inc., 1196 Pleasant Ridge Rd., Ste. 5, Greensboro, NC 27409; (336) 510-7840