GaAs ICs will dominate WLAN PAs and switches
"Harmonization of worldwide 5 GHz WLAN operation, and a rapid move towards dual-band systems incorporating 802.11a/g combo devices, will provide the momentum for the GaAs IC market," said Asif Anwar, senior analyst at Strategy Analytics. "The power amplifier, in particular, will be a bright spot."
"Anadigics, Microsemi and Raytheon are the early leaders in the WLAN GaAs power amplifier market," observed Stephen Entwistle, VP of Strategic Technologies Practice. "RF Micro Devices and Skyworks are the market leaders for GaAs power amplifiers for cellular handsets, and the WLAN market will be their next target."
The report also finds that the overall market for RF and associated chips for 802.11, including power amplifiers and switches, will grow from $487 million in 2002, to $637 million in 2003. By 2008, dual-band 802.11a/g combo devices will make up more than 75% of the devices shipped.
