One-chip transceiver saves space, power and time

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team May 2, 2008

ISM band transceiver integrates sigma-delta fractional-N synthesiser, VCO, up- and downconversion mixers, data slicer and transceiver configuration registers.

New from RF Micro Devices, the ML2726 is a low-power low-IF frequency shift key (FSK) transceiver designed for operation in the licence-free 2.4GHz ISM band.

The ML2726 reference design enables consumer product OEMs to quickly bring to market products featuring wireless data connectivity for multiple applications, including game controllers, PC peripherals, automatic meter reading, security systems, telemetry and point-of-sale vending equipment.

The ML2726 is a highly integrated RF transceiver incorporating a sigma-delta fractional-N synthesiser, voltage controlled oscillator (VCO), upconversion and downconversion mixers, data slicer and transceiver configuration registers.

By offering a market-leading 2Mbit/s data transmission rate, the ML2726 minimises average power consumption, leading to longer battery life in portable applications.

Additionally, the ML2726 incorporates self-alignment of the low-IF receiver and phase locked loop (PLL) detection and control, both easing implementation and eliminating the cumbersome mass production tuning process which is customary with competing transceiver solutions.

According to Alastair Upton, General Manager of RFMD's Broadband and Consumer Business Unit: "The highly specialised wireless data markets, such as meter reading and wireless game controllers, demand a high level of support and component flexibility to meet their individual application needs".

"By providing reference designs demonstrating FCC part-15 compliance combined with world-class customer support we enable designers to quickly implement the market-leading features the ML2726 has to offer, accelerating our customers' time to market".

The ML2726 is packaged in a 7 x 7 x 1mm, 32-pin TQFP package and is priced at US $2.67 each, in quantities of 10,000 units with samples available immediately.