Qorvo QPF4528 front-end module

Designed for Internet of Things (IoT) systems based on Wi-Fi 6, the QPF4528 front-end module (FEM) from Qorvo offers a compact form factor and integrated matching to minimise layout area in applications such as wireless routers, set-top boxes and access points.

The FEM integrates a 5 GHz power amplifier (PA), regulator, single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switch, low noise amplifier (LNA) with bypass mode, RF coupler and voltage power detector into a single device. The product is designed to boost linear power transmission without increasing power dissipation, enabling higher-performance Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) enterprise access points in smaller form factor designs.

The FEM allows up to 8x8 multiple-input multiple-output (MU-MIMO) in both conventional and Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems, which is said to enable fewer access points, enhanced capacity and efficiency, and improved speed across enterprise systems. The device is also optimised to solve thermal challenges in Wi-Fi equipment designed for MU-MIMO environments.