Using SiGe:C process, NEC has readied a family of high performance low-noise amplifier (LNA) ICs that combine lower noise figures (NF) with high gain and low distortion. The new UPC8236T6N is designed to be used as an external input LNA ahead of the GPS receiver IC. And offers low 0.8 dB NF to help improve overall system sensitivity. While its high 19.5 dB gain helps overcome losses associated with external SAW filters, according to NEC. The UPC8236T6N features a robust band-gap voltage regulator, a power save function, and on-chip ESD protection. It also features low distortion and operates at 1.6 to 3.3 V supply voltage. Typical IIP3 distortion is –3 dBm. And power save with low enable voltage of 1.0 V.
Highly integrated, it needs just three RF matching components and a minimal number of DC bypass capacitors, said NEC. It’s housed in a new, low-profile 1.5 x 1.5 x 0.37 mm 6-pin TSON package. The UPC8236T6N is in stock and available now from California Eastern Labs (CEL). To expedite circuit design, CEL offers evaluation boards.