Doubt regarding operating voltages of Mobile phone FEMs.

[sharathsatheesh]

Hi,
I have been studying about some communication systems recently, and came across that all these systems are used in mobile phones as well. In my project I am looking for mems alternatives for the solid state based Front End Modules of mobile phones.. so I just wanted to know, what are the typical operating voltages at which mobile FEMs operate. FEMs like duplexor, switches, LNA, etc....
thanks in advance.

 

[RCinFLA]

GaAs switches typically operate with 3 v gate drive to minimize ON resistance. You may see level translator for digital control to provide 1.8 v logic control.
3 v isn't much of an issue as the power drain is small.

 

[sharathsatheesh]

Hi,
Thanks for the info. Could you tell me what are the typical figure of merits for a typical switch used in these applications? How do we say a switch is good for mobile RF applications or not?
Regards
Sharath P Satheesh

 

[RCinFLA]

UMTS and LTE have the toughest specs for IP2 and IP3 performance. Typical would be no more the -102 dbm third order product from +20 dbm and -15 dbm signals. Something like +65 dbm IP3. Also there are tough harmonic level specs relating to IP2 performance, -70 dbc.

You can do google search for part specs.

MEMS are usually pretty good at making these specs but you have to be careful about make/break under RF power causing contacts to fry.