Amplifier Offers 31-dB Gain Control To 2.4 GHz

Model DVGA1-242+ is a digitally controlled variable-gain amplifier that operates from 450 to 2400 MHz. It is essentially a high-gain amplifier and digital attenuator in a compact surface-mount package. It features a 31.5-dB gain-control range, adjustable in 0.5-dB steps with 0.1-dB typical gain/amplitude accuracy. Ideal for applications in cellular base stations and Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, model DVGA1-242+ has a 6-b serial control interface capable of typical switching speed of 1 s from 50% control signal to within 0.5 dB of the final gain value. The maximum switching repetition rate is 25 kHz. With 0-dB attenuation, the amplifier delivers typical gain of 29 dB at 450 MHz, 30.3 dB at 1000 MHz, 24.4 dB at 2000 MHz, and 21 dB at 2400 MHz. The output power at 1-dB compression is typically +22.5 dBm at 450 MHz, +22.8 dBm at 1000 MHz, +23.2 dBm at 2000 MHz, and +23 dBm at 2400 MHz. The third-order intercept point (IP3) is typically +35.2 dBm at 450 MHz, +34.5 dBm at 1000 MHz, +37.0 dBm at 2000 MHz, and +37.0 dBm at 2400 MHz. The noise figure is typically 3.8 dB at 450 MHz, 2.5 dB at 1000 MHz, and 3.5 dB at 2400 MHz. The amplifier runs on supplies of +3 and +5 VDC with typical current draw of 154 mA. Model DVGA1-242+ is supplied in a 5 x 5 mm MCLP package and has an operating temperature range of -40 to +85C. For more information, click here.