RF Micro Devices RF6525/EM357 front-end module

RF Micro Devices has released the RF6525 front-end module, integrated device that meets or exceeds the system requirements of ZigBee applications operating in the 2.4 - 2.5 GHz frequency band.

It supports multiple applications, including smart energy/advanced metering infrastructure, home area network, wireless ZigBee home automation, portable battery-powered equipment and general 2.4 GHz ISM band systems.

Designed in collaboration with Ember to create the RF6525/EM357 reference design, the device integrates a +20 dBm PA with a Tx harmonic output filter in the transmit path and a low-noise amplifier with bypass mode in the receive path.

The module also includes a low insertion loss, high isolation, double-pole double-throw diversity transfer switch and a two-port 50 Ω Rx/Tx integrated balun that simplifies matching and provides balanced input and output signals for both the Tx and Rx paths.

It is suitable for ZigBee systems operating with high efficiency requirements and a minimum output power of 20 dBm. In the receive path, the Rx chain provides 11.5 dB of typical gain with 7 mA of current and a noise figure of 2.5 dB.