Combining multiple-process technologies with proprietary polar architecture, Freescale Semiconductor has readied four modules to deliver a fourth-generation RF subsystem for WCDMA/EDGE terminals. This integrated solution is designed to give cell phone manufacturers the capability to shrink board space by 70%, creating possibilities for a new breed of slim, elegant 3G handsets, said Freescale.

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The WCDMA/EDGE RF subsystem integrates digital interfacing to the baseband processor for industry-wide compatibility and continues to support emerging standards such as DigRF, a global standard of an efficient physical interconnection between and RF ICs for digital cellular terminals.

Designed to transmit voice and data for dual-mode 3G handsets, the subsystem comprises the following components:

• MMM6007: Tri-band WCDMA transceiver with digital interface
• MM6032: WCDMA integrated power amplifier module with power detection
• MMM6000: Quad-band GSM/EDGE transceiver with DigRF
• MMM6029: GSM/EDGE integrated power amplifier module with power control

These devices, which work with Freescale’s baseband processors, are part of the i.300 Innovative Convergence platform solution. However, the RF subsystem with the digital interface is designed to allow communications with other digital baseband processors as well. The combined products—MMM6007, MMM6032, MMM6000 and MMM6029—are sampling now and are expected to be available for production in the third quarter. Reference design is available, according to Freescale.