Microchip Continues Expansion of Gallium Nitride (GaN) RF Power Portfolio

Rhea-AI Summary

Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) has expanded its Gallium Nitride (GaN) RF power device portfolio with new MMICs and discrete transistors operating up to 20 GHz. These devices deliver high power-added efficiency (PAE) and linearity for applications in 5G, satellite communications, and defense. Key features include RF output power up to 100W with efficiency rates reaching 70%. The portfolio supports various frequency ranges and includes over 50 devices designed for advanced modulation techniques. These products are now available for volume production.

Positive

• Expansion of GaN RF power device portfolio enhances competitive edge.
• Devices offer high power-added efficiency (PAE) up to 70%.
• Supports critical applications including 5G and defense technologies.

Negative

• None.

New Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) and discrete devices deliver performance levels required in 5G, satellite communication and defense applications

CHANDLER, Ariz., Dec. 01, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) today announced a significant expansion of its Gallium Nitride (GaN) Radio Frequency (RF) power device portfolio with new MMICs and discrete transistors that cover frequencies up to 20 gigahertz (GHz). The devices combine high power-added efficiency (PAE) and high linearity to deliver new levels of performance in applications ranging from 5G to electronic warfare, satellite communications, commercial and defense radar systems and test equipment.

Like all Microchip GaN RF power products, the devices are fabricated using GaN-on-silicon carbide technology that provides the best combination of high-power density and yield, as well as high-voltage operation and longevity of more than 1 million hours at a 255^o C junction temperature.

They include GaN MMICs covering 2 to 18 GHz, 12 to 20 GHz, and 12 to 20 GHz with 3 dB Compression Point (P₃dB) RF output power up to 20 W and efficiency up to 25%, as well as bare die and packaged GaN MMIC amplifiers for S- and X-band with up to 60% PAE, and discrete high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) devices covering DC to 14 GHz with P₃dB RF output power up to 100W and maximum efficiency of 70%.

“Microchip continues to invest in our family of GaN RF products to support every application at all frequencies from microwave through millimeter wavelengths, and our product portfolio includes more than 50 devices, from low-power levels to 2.2 kW,” said Leon Gross, vice president of Microchip’s discrete products business unit. “Together the products announced today span 2 to 20 GHz and are designed to meet the linearity and efficiency challenges posed by the higher-order modulation techniques employed in 5G and other wireless networks, as well as the unique needs of satellite communications and defense applications.”

Microchip’s portfolio of RF semiconductors in addition to GaN devices ranges from gallium arsenide (GaAs) RF amplifiers and modules to low-noise amplifiers, front-end modules (RFFEs), varactor, Schottky, and PIN diodes, RF switches and voltage variable attenuators. In addition, the company provides high-performance surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) oscillators and highly integrated modules that combine microcontrollers (MCUs) with RF transceivers (Wi-Fi^® MCUs) that support major short-range wireless communications protocols from Bluetooth^® and Wi-Fi to LoRa^®.

Development Tools
Microchip provides board design support to help with design-ins, as do the company’s distribution partners. The company also provides compact models for the new GaN products that let customers more easily model performance and expedite the design of the power amplifiers in their systems.

Availability
The power devices announced today include the ICP0349PP7-1-300I and ICP1543-1-110I, as well as other Microchip RF products, and are available in volume production. For additional information, contact a Microchip sales representative or visit Microchip’s website. To purchase Microchip’s GaN products, contact a Microchip authorized distributor.

Resources
High-res images available through Flickr (feel free to publish):

• Application image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/51664786331/sizes/l/
• Product image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/51665913049/sizes/l/

About Microchip Technology
Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of smart connected and secure embedded control solutions. Its easy-to-use development tools and comprehensive product portfolio enable customers to create optimal designs which reduce risk while lowering total system cost and time to market. The company’s solutions serve more than 120,000 customers across the industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defense, communications and computing markets. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at www.microchip.com.

Note: The Microchip name and logo and the Microchip logo are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.

Editorial Contact:	Reader Inquiries:
Cathy Gedvilas	1-888-624-7435
(480) 792-4386
cathy.gedvilas@microchip.com

FAQ

What new products did Microchip announce for MCHP on December 1, 2021?

Microchip announced new MMICs and discrete transistors as part of its expanded GaN RF power device portfolio.

What are the key features of the new MMICs launched by Microchip?

The new MMICs support frequencies up to 20 GHz, with RF output power reaching up to 100W and efficiency up to 70%.

What applications can benefit from Microchip's new RF products?

The new RF products are designed for applications in 5G, satellite communications, and defense sectors.

When will the new Microchip GaN devices be available?

The new GaN devices are available for volume production as of December 1, 2021.

What does the expansion of the GaN RF portfolio mean for MCHP investors?

The expansion may enhance Microchip's market position and potential revenues from key growth sectors like 5G and defense.