Amplifier IC for GPS Apps

( 1 Jul 2006 )

STMicroelectronics has introduced a single-chip product designed for use in electronic devices embedding a GPS function. The SMA661AS is said to be the first low-noise amplifier with integrated matching networks and an embedded power-down function. The chip, which requires only one external input capacitor, reduces the application bill of materials and the printed circuit board (PCB) area, resulting in an ideal solution for compact and cost-effective GPS low noise amplifiers (LNA). Fully integrated, the amplifier achieves excellent radio frequency (RF) performance at the GPS frequency of 1.575GHz, in terms of power gain (17dB) and noise figure (1.4dB) with a current consumption of 8.5mA. The device is unconditionally stable and its standby current consumption is as low as 10nA. All these features are steady over the operating environment temperature range of -40º to +85ºC. STMicroelectronics