RFMD(R) Introduces GSM/GPRS Power Amplifier Module for Improved Total Radiated Power (TRP) Performance

RF Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ: RFMD), a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance radio systems and solutions for applications that drive mobile communications, today announced the introduction of the RF3196 power amplifier module for GSM/GPRS handsets. The enhanced power control capabilities of the RF3196 provide improved TRP and Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) performance in mobile communication devices. The RF3196 power amplifier module includes state-of-the-art power flattening technology, VBAT tracking and RFMD’s patented PowerStar® technology to provide a complete power control system. The improved TRP and SAR performance of the RF3196 reduces current variation by 50% into non-ideal (3:1) loads (also known as "antenna mismatch”). The RF3196 is pin-for-pin compatible with RFMD’s high-volume RF3166 PowerStar power amplifier module, thus providing an easy migration path for customers seeking improved TRP and SAR performance in handsets. Total radiated power (TRP) is the measure of a mobile device's radiated output power. TRP is a function of the output power of the power amplifier, the antenna’s radiation efficiency and the power amplifier’s sensitivity to antenna mismatch. Antenna mismatch occurs in all handsets and is more predominant in multi-band "worldphones” because of the increase in the number of bands supported by the antenna. As a result of antenna mismatch, handsets can operate below planned output power, resulting in dropped calls, or above planned output power, resulting in reduced talk time and poor call quality. Improvements in TRP increase network efficiency, network coverage and data throughput rates while also reducing the frequency of dropped calls. RFMD has shipped approximately 20 million power amplifiers to date that reduce variation in output power into mismatched antennas and deliver industry-leading TRP performance. Konrad Alvarino, general manager of RFMD’s Components Business Unit, said, "The RF3196 provides handset manufacturers significant benefits in current consumption in real-world usage environments. This results in improved battery life and talk time as well as reduced thermal dissipation, all of which are key metrics in mobile device development. RFMD will continue to focus on solving our customers’ complex RF challenges, as we introduce additional innovative architectures and design techniques that lower costs, ease implementation, reduce size and accelerate time-to-market.” The RF3196 complies fully with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS) and is currently available for $1.18 in quantities of 1 million pieces. About RFMD: RF Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ: RFMD) is a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance radio systems and solutions for applications that drive mobile communications. RFMD’s power amplifiers, transmit modules, cellular transceivers and system-on-chip (SoC) solutions enable worldwide mobility, provide enhanced connectivity and support advanced functionality in current- and next-generation mobile handsets, cellular base stations, wireless local area networks (WLANs) and global positioning systems (GPS). Recognized for its diverse portfolio of state-of-the-art semiconductor technologies and vast RF systems expertise, RFMD is a preferred supplier enabling the world’s leading mobile device manufacturers to deliver advanced wireless capabilities that satisfy current and future market demands. Headquartered in Greensboro, N.C., RFMD is an ISO 9001- and ISO 14001-certified manufacturer with worldwide engineering, design, sales and service facilities. RFMD is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol RFMD. For more information, please visit RFMD’s web site at www.rfmd.com. 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