Microchip Technology Inc. has expanded its RF power amplifier portfolio with the addition of the new SST12LP17E and SST12LP18E devices. The SST12LP17E is the smallest fully matched power amp in its class, requiring only one DC bypass capacitor to achieve optimum performance. The SST12LP18E is a lower-cost, lower-voltage alternative to Microchip’s popular SST12LP14E power amp. It offers the lowest operating voltage of any Microchip RF power amp, while operating at -20 to +85 degrees Celsius.

The devices feature operating voltages as low as 2.7V, linear output power as high as 18.5 dBm at 2.5 percent EVM using IEEE 802.11g OFDM 54 Mbps, and 23.5 dBm for IEEE 802.11b and a high power-added efficiency of up to 38 percent for IEEE 802.11b. The amps are offered in an 8-pin 2mm x 2mm x .45mm QFN package. They are ideal for embedded WLAN applications where small size, high efficiency and low-battery voltage operation are required, such as in the consumer electronics market, cell phones, game consoles, printers and tablets.

The new devices offer high power-added efficiency to reduce battery current drain, while their low operating voltages further extend battery life. The SST12LP17E’s matched input and output ports enable faster time-to-market. Additionally, this device requires no external RF matching components and requires only one external capacitor, taking up less board space.

Packaging, Pricing and Availability

The new RF power amps are available in an 8-pin 2mm x 2mm x .45mm QFN
package. The fully matched, low-power SST12LP17E is priced at $0.48 each
in 10,000-unit quantities, while the low-power SST12LP18E is available
for $0.29 each in 10,000-unit quantities. Samples are available today at
www.microchip.com/get/337Q.

Volume-production quantities can be ordered today. For additional information or to purchase contact any Microchip sales representative or authorized worldwide distributor, or visit Microchip’s Web site at www.microchip.com/get/02K5.