Maximized handset output power and smaller pc-boards come from dynamically adjustable integrated antenna-matching capacitors.
STMicroelectronics is working to help avoid dropped calls and increase battery life with a new range of highly miniaturized adaptive devices that dynamically optimize handset antenna performance.
ST’s new ParaScan Tunable Integrated Capacitors (STPTIC) are electrically adjustable to maintain efficient transfer of energy from the handset amplifier to the antenna under various operating conditions. The STPTIC helps maximize radiated RF power for better call performance, overcoming the challenges of use in multiple frequency bands, when the handset is held close to the user’s ear or when it is moved away from the head, while minimizing amplifier power consumption for longer battery life.
Unlike alternatives that typically contain multiple switched capacitors, the STPTIC allows capacitance to be adjusted smoothly, without steps, for greater precision. The STPTIC is also smaller, combining a single, variable capacitor with control circuitry using ST’s Integrated Passive and Active Device (IPAD) technology.
Major features of the STPTIC family:
- Range of capacitance values: 2.7 to 8.2 pF
- High power capability (+36 dBm)
- High tuning range (3.5:1)
- High linearity device (IP3 > 60dB)
- High Quality factor (Q factor) up to 2.7 GHz
- Low leakage current (Less than 100 nA)
- Compatible with ST antenna tuning circuit (STHVDAC series)
The STPTIC devices in the 6-pin microDFN and flip-chip packages are sampling now to lead customers direct from ST only, at prices starting at $0.50 and $0.48 respectively for volumes in the range of 1,000 pieces.
