Silicon switch reduces size and power consumption in cellular radio RF front ends

Analog Devices have introduced a high power (44W peak) single-pole, double-throw silicon switch that enables designers to reduce hardware size and bias power consumption in cellular radio systems. As the next generation of communications infrastructure trends toward higher data capacity, cellular radio front ends must scale down in size and provide faster speeds to meet the demands of increased data usage. This ADRF5130 switch meets these requirements through a high level of integration that eliminates the need for external components. The switch also reduces power consumption to more efficient levels by operating on a single low-voltage supply with extremely low current consumption compared to existing pin-diode-based solutions. The device is manufactured using silicon technology, and is housed in a small 4mm × 4mm LFCSP SMT package. It is specified at 0.7GHz to 3.5GHz frequency band with typical 0.6dB insertion-loss, high isolation of 50dB, excellent linearity of +68dBm and peak power handling of 44W during continuous operation mode. The device features robust 2000V electro-static-discharge protection on all device pins. It also incorporates a fast CMOS-compatible control interface with switching time less than 1us. Additionally, a symmetrical circuit architecture allows the RF inputs to be used interchangeably in high power applications.