Qorvo® Introduces Advanced Power Solution for Phased Array Systems

Rhea-AI Summary

Qorvo (Nasdaq: QRVO) announced a new three-stage power solution for phased array radar applications on Feb. 2, 2023. This innovative chipset enhances system performance through configurable GaN bias point autocalibration and reduces capacitance by up to 90%, leading to a 30% decrease in system volume and lower operating costs. The solution includes three components: the ACT43950 capacitor charge controller, the ACT43850 RF Point-of-Load power converter, and the ACT43750 drain switch regulator. An evaluation board is available for performance testing, facilitating faster market entry for customers.

Positive

• Introduces a three-chip solution that enhances radar system performance.
• Reduces capacitance by up to 90% and system volume by 30%.
• Integration of advanced technologies improves operational efficiency.
• Evaluation board available for customer performance testing.

Negative

• None.

Three-chip Solution Provides Configurable GaN Bias Point Autocalibration

GREENSBORO, N.C., Feb. 02, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Qorvo^® (Nasdaq: QRVO), a leading global provider of connectivity and power solutions, today announced a compact, three-stage power solution for phased array commercial and defense radar. The three-chip solution provides configurable GaN bias point autocalibration, enabling engineers to maximize system performance for different GaN power amplifiers (PAs) without changing the board design.

Qorvo’s new chipset optimizes one of the largest and most expensive parts of a phased array system: the pulsed-energy storage capacitors. Through an innovative new architecture, this solution reduces capacitance by up to 90%, shrinking system volume by up to 30% while reducing weight and operating costs.

Philip Chesley, president of Qorvo’s High Performance Analog business, said, “This complete radar power solution integrates advanced technologies from across Qorvo, combining an innovative new power conversion architecture, our best-in-class GaN RF power amplifiers and efficient, reliable silicon carbide FETs.”

The new three-stage solution consists of the following:

• ACT43950 is a high-voltage constant-current capacitor charge controller that works with Qorvo’s silicon carbide power switches to provide fully programmable output voltage and current, allowing customers to maximize system performance. This regulator’s architecture, in conjunction with the following stages, minimizes power storage capacitor requirements.
• ACT43850, an RF Point-of-Load (RFPoL) step-down DC-DC power converter, takes the output from the ACT43950 and steps it down to a well-regulated voltage optimized for Qorvo GaN power amplifiers. Its advanced configuration options allow RF system designers to minimize noise and EMI, maximizing the performance of the radar array.
• ACT43750 is a highly-integrated drain switch and negative gate voltage regulator PMIC that enables ultra-fast RF GaN PA drain switching. By automating gate voltage bias sequencing, autocalibration and dynamic bias recalibration, Qorvo simplifies system manufacturing while mitigating the effects of device aging and temperature on RF performance.
  

Qorvo offers an evaluation board (CB1-750-850-950) that allows customers to test the performance of this three-stage solution with a wide set of RF GaN PAs. The evaluation board’s intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) allows customers to reconfigure the default settings to optimize performance for their specific PA. It demonstrates the reduced bulk capacitor requirements and gate bias autocalibration. The board’s flexible design can be used to evaluate the individual stages or the entire three-chip solution with an RF PA, enabling faster time to market.

To learn more about Qorvo's radar chipset solution and request samples, visit http://www.qorvo.com/go/pwr-radar-chipset.

About Qorvo
Qorvo (Nasdaq: QRVO) supplies innovative semiconductor solutions that make a better world possible. We combine product and technology leadership, systems-level expertise and global manufacturing scale to quickly solve our customers' most complex technical challenges. Qorvo serves diverse high-growth segments of large global markets, including consumer electronics, smart home/IoT, automotive, EVs, battery-powered appliances, network infrastructure, healthcare and aerospace/defense. Visit www.qorvo.com to learn how our diverse and innovative team is helping connect, protect and power our planet.

Qorvo is a registered trademark of Qorvo, Inc. in the U.S. and in other countries.

Investor Relations Contact: Doug DeLieto VP, Investor Relations W +1-336-678-7088

Media Contact: Scott Lewis Director – Product Marcom scott.lewis@qorvo.com

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FAQ

What is Qorvo's new power solution for phased array radar?

Qorvo's new power solution is a three-stage chipset that provides configurable GaN bias point autocalibration, optimizing performance in phased array radar applications.

How does the new chipset reduce costs and size?

The chipset reduces capacitance requirements by up to 90% and shrinks system volume by up to 30%, which lowers operating costs.

What are the key components of Qorvo's three-stage solution?

The solution comprises the ACT43950 capacitor charge controller, ACT43850 RF Point-of-Load DC-DC power converter, and ACT43750 drain switch regulator.

Is there an evaluation board available for testing the new chipset?

Yes, Qorvo offers an evaluation board that allows customers to test the performance of the three-stage power solution with various GaN power amplifiers.

When was the new radar power solution announced?

The new radar power solution was announced on February 2, 2023.