Micrel Inc.'s new "It's OOK To ASK" QwikRadio design software is aimed at simplifying the implementation of RF designs. The new software, coupled with the high integration levels inherent within Micrel's QwikRadio RF product family, allows designers to easily and quickly develop next generation RF solutions. The software can be downloaded free of charge from the Micrel Web site.

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The software only requires the designer to input key parameters applying to their specific application. It then responds with an output that includes a complete schematic and bill of materials. The software also provides users with a direct link to Micrel's Web site where they can download the appropriate PCB layout files for a recommended design.

"RF design is recognized as being notoriously difficult to implement," noted Scott Brown, director of Mixed-Signal and RF products, Micrel. "Micrel's new software makes it easy, painless and quick to sort through the scores of design options and reduces cycle-time and design risk."

According to Micrel, QwikRadio receivers feature the industry's highest level of integration so that designers need to specify fewer external components. The newest RF member was MICRF009, released last month. By comparison, this low-power QwikRadio receiver chip provides higher sensitivity and faster recovery from shutdown.