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Designed to reduce front-end noise and boost sensitivity in challenging environments, the UPC8240T6N external low-noise amplifier (LNA) from California Eastern Labs can be located near the antenna to reduce trace losses (see the figure). Combined with distributed filtering, the company says, it also significantly improves noise performance. It’s based on NEC’s UHS4 (ultra-high-speed) SiGe:C (silicon germanium) and runs on supply voltages as low as 1.6 to 3.3 V (2.7 V typical), so it suits use in new-generation GPS engines.

Designed to reduce front-end noise and boost sensitivity in challenging environments, the UPC8240T6N external LNA from California Eastern Labs can be located near the antenna in GPS receivers to reduce trace losses.

The UPC8240T6N offers a 28-dB gain, 1.0-dB noise, 6.5-mA current consumption, all typical, and a maximum power-save current of 1 µA. It also features a built-in power-save function, a robust bandgap regulator, an output matching network, and electrostatic-discharge protection. The LNA comes in a six-pin, 1.5- by 1.5- by 0.37-mm package that complies with the European Union’s Restrictions on Hazardous Substances (RoHS).

The UPC8240T6N is in stock and available now. CEL also offers evaluation boards through its sales offices and Mouser Electronics. For a datasheet, go to www.cel.com/pdf/datasheets/upc8240t6n.pdf.