RF Micro Devices has launched two VCAs (voltage controlled attenuators) that have good linearity with a third order intercept point of over 50dBm over a gain control range of 30dB. The RFSA2013 and RFSA2023 VCAs operate from 5 and 3V supplies and cover a wideband frequency range of 50 to 4000MHz. The devices incorporate a circuit architecture that provides good performance in linearity, attenuation range, DC current and bandwidth, as well as a linear attenuation profile versus control voltage.
The VCAs also employ internal temperature compensation to provide an attenuation profile over an operating temperature range from -40 to +85°C.They are available in a compact 3x3mm QFN package. The company exhibited the components at the IEEE International Microwave Symposium 2011 that was held from June 6 to 8 at the Baltimore Convention Center.
