RF Micro Devices Introduces Trio of GaAs HBT Amplifiers

Miniature Components Feature High Linearity, High Gain and Low Noise

Greensboro, NC. RF Micro Devices, Inc. (Nasdaq: RFMD), a leading provider of proprietary radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs) for wireless communications applications, announced today the introduction of three new GaAs HBT linear variable gain amplifiers -- the RF2376, the RF2377 and the RF2381.

"This family of drivers is a proven solution for TDMA handsets and is applicable to CDMA and especially WCDMA handset applications as well," said Mike Coady RFMD(R) marketing manager for digital cellular products. WCDMA is an emerging market, with the first WCDMA-capable phones expected to be launched commercially in mid-2001.

The RF2381 and RF2377 TX variable gain driver amplifiers are part of a complete single-mode WCDMA chipset solution previously announced in February 2000. "This chipset offers a complete RF to IF solution for WCDMA using HBT, SiGe and BiCMOS process technologies. RFMD has a comprehensive road map in place and will continually improve its products to address single-mode WCDMA, as well as other 3G opportunities including multi-mode solutions," added Coady.

Operating from a single 2.7V-3.3V power supply, all three amplifiers feature a 50 dB linear gain control range, high linearity, high gain and a low noise figure. The components, manufactured using a gallium arsenide heterojunction bipolar transistor (GaAs HBT) process technology, are offered in industry-standard miniature six-lead plastic SOT packages (SOT23-6).

The RF2376 is suitable for use in cellular-band TDMA and CDMA systems in the 800 MHz - 1000 MHz frequency range. With a 30 mA supply current, the RF2376 delivers a 27 dB maximum small signal gain with an output IP3 of +25 dBm.

The RF2377 amplifier is designed for use in WCDMA systems and in TDMA and CDMA systems (both cellular-band and PCS). Operating from 800 MHz - 2100 MHz, the RF2377 offers 24 dB maximum gain for TDMA/CDMA and 21.5 dB for WCDMA, with a noise figure of only 7 dB (TDMA/CDMA) or 5 dB (WCDMA).

The RF2381 is also designed for use in WCDMA systems and in TDMA and CDMA systems (both cellular and PCS). This amplifier features an operating range of 800 MHz - 2100 MHz, a maximum small signal gain of 22 dB, an IP3 of +26 dBm and an overall noise figure of 9 dB.

Fully assembled evaluation boards and integrated circuits for any of the new linear variable gain amplifiers are available from RFMD. The components are priced at $1.07 each, in order quantities of 10,000 units or more. For a complete listing of RFMD(R) products and services, refer to the company s Designer s Handbook. Free copies in print or CD-ROM format are available directly from RFMD by calling 336/664-1233, extension 6655, or sending an e-mail request to jmcrae@rfmd.com.

RF Micro Devices, Inc., an ISO 9001-certified manufacturer, designs, develops, manufactures and markets proprietary RFICs for wireless communications applications such as cellular and PCS phones, cordless phones, wireless LANs, wireless local loop handsets, industrial radios, wireless security systems and remote meter readers. The company offers a broad array of products -- including amplifiers, mixers, modulators/demodulators, and single-chip receivers, transmitters and transceivers -- representing a substantial majority of the RFICs required in wireless subscriber equipment. The company s strategy is to focus on wireless markets by offering a broad range of standard and custom-designed RFICs in order to position itself as a "one-stop" solution for its customers RFIC needs. In the September 4, 2000 issue of FORTUNE magazine, RF Micro Devices was ranked second among FORTUNE s "100 Fastest Growing Companies." RF Micro Devices, Inc. is traded on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol RFMD.

This press release contains forward-looking statements that relate to the company s plans, objectives, estimates and goals. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," and "estimates," and variations of such words and similar expressions, identify such forward-looking statements. The company s business is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including probable variability in quarterly operating results, risks associated with the operation of a wafer fabrication facility and the construction of a second facility, the company s ability to manage rapid growth, variability in production yields, the rate of growth and development of wireless markets, dependence on a limited number of customers and dependence on third parties. These and other risks and uncertainties, which are described in more detail in the company s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, could cause actual results and developments to be materially different from those expressed or implied by any of these forward-looking statements.

RF Micro Devices(R) and RFMD(R) are trademarks of RF Micro Devices, Inc. For further information about RFMD or the new RF2376, RF2377 or RF2381, please visit our web site at http://www.rfmd.com. Product photography available upon request - please contact Angie Finney at 336/664-1233, extension 6652.

Contact: RF Micro Devices Mike Coady or Paul Brey Tel: 336/664-1233