Technical Insight
Agere selects RFMD for GPRS modules (GaAs NEWS)
Agere Systems (Allentown, PA) has chosen a PA module manufactured by RF Micro Devices for use in its Class 8 general packet radio service (GPRS) handset. RFMD s RF3108 module is based on a triple-band GSM design for use in Class 10 applications. Manufactured using RFMD s GaAs HBT process, the module provides typical power-added efficiencies of 55% for the GSM900 band, 52% for the DCS1800 frequency and 47% for PCS1900 systems. Asian interests "Handset manufacturers, particularly in Asia, are showing increasing interest in technology platforms," said Joe Grzyb, director of RFMD s power amplifier product line. "This is due to the need for accelerated time-to-market, reduced cost, ease of assembly and an overall desire to reduce the reliance on design engineering resources, which remain in short supply. We believe this trend has recently accelerated as tier-one manufacturers have begun to outsource to Asian handset manufacturers in order to cost-effectively complement their supply strategies."
