RFMD Introduces RFFM6903 Front-End Module

MUNICH, Germany -- RF Micro Devices, Inc. (Nasdaq:RFMD), a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance radio frequency components and compound semiconductor technologies, announced the availability of the RFFM6903 front end module (FEM). RFMD's highly-integrated RFFM6903 FEM meets or exceeds the system requirements for AMI/AMR smart meter applications operating in the 868 MHz–960 MHz frequency band. The FEM supports multiple applications, including Smart Energy/advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), portable battery-powered equipment, and general 868/915 MHz ISM band systems.

The feature-rich RFFM6903 integrates a 30.5 dBm power amplifier (PA) with a Tx harmonic output filter in the transmit path, a Tx path bypass mode with harmonic filter, and a low-noise amplifier (LNA) with bypass mode in the receive path and is packaged in a 6 mm x 6 mm x 1 mm laminate package. The RFMD RFFM6903 also includes a low insertion loss, high isolation, single-pole three-throw (SP3T) switch and separate Rx/Tx 50 ohm ports that simplify matching and provide input and output signals for both the Tx and Rx paths. In the receive path, the Rx chain provides 16 dB of typical gain with only 5 mA of current and an excellent noise figure of 1.7 dB.

Rohan Houlden, general manager of RFMD's Wireless Connectivity business unit, said, "The RFFM6903 is ideal for advanced metering systems requiring high efficiency and minimum output power of 1 Watt. The high level of integration and industry-leading form factor minimize the footprint and reduce the number of discrete components and manufacturing assembly costs. The fully-integrated front end module design approach shortens customer design time and accelerates time-to-market, while delivering industry leading product performance."

RFMD is showcasing a broad portfolio of industry-leading RF components at the Electronica 2012 trade show in Munich, Germany, November 13–16, Stand #A4.134.

Availability
The RFFM6903 is available for sampling and mass production.

About RFMD
RF Micro Devices, Inc. (Nasdaq:RFMD) is a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance radio frequency components and compound semiconductor technologies. RFMD's products enable worldwide mobility, provide enhanced connectivity and support advanced functionality in the mobile device, wireless infrastructure, wireless local area network (WLAN or WiFi), cable television (CATV)/broadband, Smart Energy/advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), and aerospace and defense markets. RFMD is recognized for its diverse portfolio of semiconductor technologies and RF systems expertise and is a preferred supplier to the world's leading mobile device, customer premises and communications equipment providers.

Headquartered in Greensboro, NC, RFMD is an ISO 9001-, ISO 14001-, and ISO/TS 16949-certified manufacturer with worldwide engineering, design, sales and service facilities. RFMD is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol RFMD.