Skyworks Solutions Inc. has unveiled a highly integrated 2.5 GHz WiMAX front-end module (FEM) -- the SKY77258 -- enabling mobile devices such as cellular handsets, smart phones, notebooks, and personal digital assistants.

The SKY77258 is a highly integrated FEM for WiMAX handsets and terminals. The device incorporates all of the necessary functions – from the transceiver’s differential inputs and outputs to the antenna – enabling industry-leading form factors and unmatched ease of integration. The power amplifier (PA) is fabricated using Skyworks’ high-reliability indium gallium phosphide (InGaP) heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) technology, while the switch uses Skyworks’ high-performance pseudomorphic high electron mobility transistor (pHEMT) technology.

The PA, switch, coupler, detector, controller, baluns, low-noise amplifiers (LNAs), and matching components are packaged in a 36-pin, 8 x 10 millimeter (mm) multichip module, which allows for an extremely manufacturable, high-performance solution that enables ease-of-use, printed circuit board (PCB)-area reduction, and efficiency. The FEM provides a linear Pout of 24 decibels (dBm) at the switch output, together with a P1dB of more than 35dBm to support the high peak-to-average ratio needed for multicarrier WiMAX signals.

Skyworks offers all of this functionality in lead (Pb)-free restriction of hazardous substances (RoHS) compliant packaging.

The SKY77258 will be available for sampling in the second calendar quarter of 2007, with volume production scheduled in the second calendar quarter of 2008.